The Highlanders have made two late changes to their team for tonight’s game against Moana Pasifika.
A star player has pulled out – but for the most exciting reason.
Loosehead prop Ethan de Groot is on paternity leave as he is due to become a father for the first time.
He is replaced in the No 1 jersey by Josh Bartlett.
Another big name drops off the bench.
Co-captain Timoci Tavatavanawai has been scratched with a foot injury.
He is replaced by loose forward Nikora Broughton, making a 6-2 split on the bench.
Kick-off is at 7.05pm at North Harbour Stadium.
The teams
Highlanders: Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, Caleb Tangitau, Jonah Lowe, Tanielu Tele’a, Jona Nareki, Reesjan Pasitoa, Nic Shearer, Hugh Renton (captain), Veveni Lasaqa, TK Howden, Tomas Lavanini, Oliver Haig, Angus Ta’avao, Jack Taylor, Josh Bartlett. Reserves: Henry Bell, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Rohan Wingham, Will Stodart, Sean Withy, Adam Lennox, Andrew Knewstubb, Nikora Broughton.
Moana Pasifika: William Havili, Solomon Alaimalo, Tevita Latu, Lalomilo Lalomilo, Glen Vaihu, Jackson Garden-Bachop, Joel Lam, Dominic Ropeti, Niko Jones, Miracle Fai’ilagi (captain), Allan Craig, Veikoso Poloniati, Feleti Sae-Ta’ufo’ou, Millennium Sanerivi, Abraham Pole. Reserves: Samiuela Moli, Malakai Hala-Ngatai, Paula Latu, Alefosio Aho, Ola Tauelangi, Siaosi Nginingini, Patrick Pellegrini, Tevita Ofa.