The Gordon Hunter Memorial Trophy isn’t the only thing at stake for the Highlanders this weekend in Auckland, as the team battles for a spot in the Super Rugby Pacific playoffs.
The Highlanders’ young squad, currently in seventh place with three tough matchups ahead of them, have a daunting task to end the season.
The Blues have chosen their strongest available 23 for the game, with All Black Ethan de Groot serving as captain once again. Ayden Johnstone, who has appeared in 50 Highlanders games, will back up the 25-year-old at Eden Park.
Henry Bell and Jermaine Ainsley join the captain in the starting front row, while Mitch Dunshea and Fabian Holland retain the starting second-row honours.
Oliver Haig, Sean Withy and Nikora Broughton make up the loose forward unit after strong showings in the team’s recent win over the Crusaders.
Folau Fakatava will link up with young gun Cam Millar once more in the halves, with the 21-year-old fresh off a coming-of-age performance in round 12.
Argentine Martín Bogado and the impressive Timoci Tavatavanawai line up on the wings, with the electric Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens suiting up in the No. 15 jersey once more.
Jake Te Hiwi and Tanielu Tele’a reunite in the midfield for the pivotal match.
Jamie Joseph underlined how remarkable it was to play for the Gordon Hunter Memorial Trophy after being mentored by the legend himself.
“Gordie was a very exceptional coach, and he had the capacity to motivate his players like no other coach I’ve ever met. We’ve been talking about Gordie this week, and the team feels honoured to be able to play for him this weekend. “He belongs back in Dunedin.”
Coach Clarke Dermody mirrored that sentiment.
“We were pleased with how the team executed the strategy last week, and they have all held their positions, but this is a new week and a new challenge we’ve reset and are working hard in getting our preparation right for this weekend.
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