All Blacks return to the Highlanders starting XV for Sunwolves clash

Following on from their round 10 win against the Blues, Highlanders' Head Coach Aaron Mauger has stuck largely with the same group to face the Sunwolves.

All Blacks Aaron Smith and Luke Whitelock return to the starting line up having featured off the bench against the Blues. 

In the forwards, the hard-working Shannon Frizell makes way for the Captain, Luke Whitelock, at six with Elliot Dixon retaining his spot at eight following some good form over the last few weeks.

In the backs, Sio Tomkinson, moves to the right wing to accommodate the return of Rob Thompson at centre and Matt Faddes moves to fullback to cover for the rested Ben Smith.

The bench will have a six / two split with Dillon Hunt being included in the forwards mix, Kayne Hammington and Bryn Gatland will cover the backs.

Unavailable due to injury: Liam Squire (knee), Waisake Naholo (knee), Marty Banks (foot), Thomas Umaga-Jensen (back), Season - Tevita Nabura (knee) Richard Buckman (achilles)