The Highlanders return home this week determined to respond after a tough outing in the Brisbane heat, preparing to host a confident Force side fresh off their win over Moana Pasifika in Pukekohe.

Both teams sit in a position where early‑season points are crucial, and Saturday’s clash shapes as an opportunity to strengthen their win–loss records and build momentum heading into the middle stages of DHL Super Rugby Pacific.

The Highlanders have shown strong composure and connection at home through the opening two rounds but were unable to replicate that at Suncorp Stadium last week. They now face a Force outfit featuring former Highlander and Otago halfback Nathan Hastie and ex‑All Black George Bridge, who will add experience and spark to the Western Australian side.

The Highlanders have made only minor adjustments to their matchday 23:

Angus Ta’avao returns to the front row, giving Rohan Wingham a well‑earned rest.
Oliver Haig and Will Stodart swap roles on the bench.
Veveni Lasaqa and Sean Withy also rotate their bench positions.
Folau Fakatava starts at halfback, with last week’s try‑scorer Adam Lennox moving to the reserves.

A notable inclusion is Nikora Broughton, who will add to his 22 Highlanders caps when he makes his first appearance of the 2026 season. Replacing Lucas Casey, the Bay of Plenty loose forward brings speed, skill, and strong ball‑carrying ability off the back of the scrum.

Head Coach Jamie Joseph is preparing for a Force side buoyed by their recent success.

“We saw last week what they’re capable of. They’ll be upbeat and enjoying their New Zealand tour, so they’ll present challenges for us, no doubt. We need to build on our start to the season, lift a notch or two, and convert more of the pressure we’re applying into points.”

This Saturday will also see afternoon rugby for the first time at home in 2026 with a 4.35pm kick-off. It’s also Super Rugby Pacific Club Rugby Round and the players will play wearing socks of the Clubs that they have connections with from within the Highlanders region.

The Highlanders are also hosting a free “Have A Go” day for junior rugby players at Logan Park (across the road from Forsyth Barr Stadium) in partnership with the Highlanders region provincial unions; Otago RFU, Southland Rugby and North Otago RFU. Running from 2:30pm until 4:00pm on Saturday. 

HIGHLANDERS V WESTERN FORCE – 4:35pm, Saturday 7th March, Forsyth Barr Stadium

Ethan de Groot (CC)Invercargill Blues / Green Island
Jack TaylorAlbion-Excelsior / Southern
Angus Ta’avaoTe Papapa / Zingari-Richmond
Oliver HaigGreen Island
Mitch DunsheaSpringston RFC / University of Otago
Te Kamaka HowdenFielding Yellows / Taieri
Veveni LasaqaGreerton Marist / Alhambra-Union
Nikora BroughtonRangiuru Sports Club / Alhambra-Union
Folau FakatavaHastings Rugby / Dunedin
Cameron MillarAlbion-Excelsior / Taieri
Jona NarekiKaierau / Alhambra-Union
Timoci Tavatavanawai (CC)Central / QVS Old Boys / Southern
Jonah LoweClive / Zingari-Richmond
Caleb TangitauGrammar Tech Auckland / Takapuna North Shore / Southern
Jacob Ratumaitavuki-KneepkensTukapa / Taieri

IMPACT

16. Soane VikenaPonsonby / Waitemata / Dunedin

17. Daniel Lienert-BrownHigh School Old Boys / University of Otago
18. Sosefo KautaiHamilton Marist / Kaikorai
19. Will StodartMyross Bush / University of Otago
20. Sean WithyDrummond Lime Hills Star (DLS) / University of Otago
21. Adam LennoxStratford Eltham / Dunedin
22. Reesjan PasitoaBays Water / Southern
23. Tanielu Tele’aMarist Manurewa / Green Island

Home Province Club/ Highlanders Region Club 

 

Unavailable due to injury: Saula Ma’u (shoulder – 5 weeks), Finn Hurley (foot – 6 weeks), Taine Robinson (back – 1/2 weeks)

 

Season Ending: Dylan Pledger (ACL), Fabian Holland (Shoulder)

 

ENDS