Squire returns as the Highlanders bid farewell to departing pair

June 05, 2019
1571
Ultimate Rugby

The Highlanders Head Coach, Aaron Mauger, has selected an experienced pack and will welcome the return of Liam Squire for his first match of the season, also back from injury are Jackson Hemopo and Tevita Li.

Josh McKay will get his first start of the year at fullback and Sef Fa’agase comes onto the bench for an injured Daniel Lienert-Brown.

It’s a big night for Luke Whitelock who will captain the side in his 100th Super Rugby game and will also bring up 50 games for the Highlanders.

Whitelock will be presented with a mere by NZ Rugby post-match to acknowledge this milestone. It may also be an emotional evening for a number of long serving Highlanders who will in all likelihood be making their last home appearance at Forsyth Barr Stadium.

Fan favourite, Waisake Naholo, will finish his time to the sound of his name ringing around the ground as the Highlanders Club has invited fans to come along for one last chant for the popular winger.

Additionally, at the end of the game fans will be invited onto the field to be part of a special presentation to Highlanders legend Ben Smith to commemorate his stellar career with the club.

Highlanders v Bulls

1. Ayden Johnstone Reserves

2. Liam Coltman 16. Ash Dixon

3. Tyrel Lomax 17. Sef Fa’agase

4. Jackson Hemopo 18. Siate Tokolahi

5. Tom Franklin 19. Josh Dickson

6. Liam Squire 20. Shannon Frizell

7. James Lentjes 21. Kayne Hammington

8. Luke Whitelock (c) 22. Marty Banks

9. Aaron Smith 23. Thomas Umaga-Jensen

10. Josh Ioane

11. Tevita Li