Highlanders bring out big guns

All Blacks wing Waisake Naholo has been picked to add some finishing power for the Highlanders ahead of their Super Rugby match against the Reds in Dunedin tomorrow night.

The presence of Naholo, who didn’t play in the Highlanders’ dramatic 30-27 win over the Chiefs in Hamilton in the opening round last weekend, means coach Aaron Mauger has listed nine All Blacks in his starting 15.

Naholo, who replaces Matt Faddes on the right wing, will be aiming to have a big season after the All Blacks selectors elected to overlook him for the tour matches against England and Ireland in London and Dublin late last year.

Joining Naholo in the Highlanders’ backline is fellow All Black Aaron Smith, who made a great impression when he took the park at halfback in Hamilton as a replacement for Kayne Hammington.

With Sio Tonkinson cited after being red carded for his high shot on Chiefs skipper Brodie Retallick – a decision on his fate has yet to be made – Teihorangi Walden has been inserted into the midfield.

Mauger has also tinkered with his forward pack.

All Black Shannon Frizell has been promoted from the reserves to start at blindside flanker, with another international, Jackson Hemopo, starting at lock. All Blacks openside flanker Dillon Hunt has also been elevated into the starting side. He replaces James Lentjes.

Blindside flanker Liam Squire, who this week confirmed he will play in Japan after the World Cup, was not considered because of a hip injury. Wing Tevita Nabura is out for the season because of a knee injury.

The Reds did not play the opening round because of the bye.