Highlanders Set To Rest 3 All Blacks

The Highlanders might be flying in Super Rugby but they will have to do without three of their star players next week when they take on the Hurricanes. 

In a massive encounter for both sides following the Highlanders' win over the Chiefs and the Hurricanes' loss to the Crusaders, Jamie Joseph’s side will have to make do without the talented triple threat of Aaron Smith, Ben Smith and Malakai Fekitoa. 

All three All Blacks are set to be rested in accordance with the agreement between the franchises and NZRU to keep players fresh in a World Cup year. 

Their absence will be sorely felt as expected, with Joseph admitting that while he agreed with the system he would have preferred to have the trio at his disposal.

"I wouldn't rest them if I didn't have to, I don't want to change the momentum," Joseph told Stuff.

"But that's something that everyone has brought into and I do understand the reason why.

"I think we will benefit over the long-term. In terms of a quarter-final having those players have a breather we will only reap the rewards."