The Highlanders have made two late changes to their team for tonight\u2019s game against Moana Pasifika.<\/p>\n
A star player has pulled out – but for the most exciting reason.<\/p>\n
Loosehead prop Ethan de Groot is on paternity leave as he is due to become a father for the first time.<\/p>\n
He is replaced in the No 1 jersey by Josh Bartlett.<\/p>\n
Another big name drops off the bench.<\/p>\n
Co-captain Timoci Tavatavanawai has been scratched with a foot injury.<\/p>\n
He is replaced by loose forward Nikora Broughton, making a 6-2 split on the bench.<\/p>\n
Kick-off is at 7.05pm at North Harbour Stadium.<\/p>\n
The teams<\/p>\n
Highlanders: Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, Caleb Tangitau, Jonah\u00a0Lowe, Tanielu Tele\u2019a, Jona Nareki,\u00a0Reesjan Pasitoa, Nic Shearer, Hugh\u00a0Renton (captain), Veveni Lasaqa, TK\u00a0Howden, Tomas Lavanini, Oliver Haig,\u00a0Angus Ta\u2019avao, Jack Taylor, Josh Bartlett. Reserves: Henry Bell, Daniel\u00a0Lienert-Brown, Rohan Wingham, Will\u00a0Stodart, Sean Withy, Adam Lennox,\u00a0Andrew Knewstubb, Nikora Broughton.<\/p>\n
Moana Pasifika: William Havili,\u00a0Solomon Alaimalo, Tevita Latu,\u00a0Lalomilo Lalomilo, Glen Vaihu, Jackson\u00a0Garden-Bachop, Joel Lam, Dominic\u00a0Ropeti, Niko Jones, Miracle Fai\u2019ilagi\u00a0(captain), Allan Craig, Veikoso\u00a0Poloniati, Feleti Sae-Ta\u2019ufo\u2019ou,\u00a0Millennium Sanerivi, Abraham Pole.\u00a0Reserves: Samiuela Moli, Malakai\u00a0Hala-Ngatai, Paula Latu, Alefosio Aho,\u00a0Ola Tauelangi, Siaosi Nginingini,\u00a0Patrick Pellegrini, Tevita Ofa.<\/p>\n