James Wilson shifts from fullback to first five-eighth for the Highlanders. Photo / Getty Images
Highlanders coach Glenn Moore has rung the changes in a bid to arrest his team's losing streak in a Super 14 rugby match against the Lions in Dunedin on Friday night.
Moore today named a team featuring numerous changes from the side who lost their sixth successive match,
to the Chiefs last weekend.
Fullback James Wilson will play at first five-eighth in place of Daniel Bowden, who drops to the bench, winger Paul Williams will wear the No 15 jersey, and Brett Mather has been named at centre in place of Niva Ta'auso.
As well, utility Matt Saunders, drafted into the squad this week, will play on the wing in place of Williams.
Moore has also shuffled his pack out of necessity.
With No 8 Steven Setephano ruled out due to a calf injury, captain Craig Newby shifts from No 6 to the back of the scrum, and lock Hoani MacDonald will ensure they have a tall lineout by occupying Newby's previous position.
Injured openside flanker Alando Soakai is replaced by Tim Boys while regular lock Tom Donnelly returns after being rested against the Chiefs, as does hooker Jason Macdonald.
Highlanders
Paul Williams, Matt Saunders, Brett Mather, Johnny Leota, Fetu'u Vainikolo, James Wilson, Jimmy Cowan, Craig Newby (captain), Tim Boys, Hoani MacDonald, Tom Donnelly, Hayden Triggs, Clint Newlands, Jason Macdonald, Jamie Mackintosh.
Reserves: David Hall, Chris King, Isaac Ross, Adam Thomson, Toby Morland, Daniel Bowden, Aaron Bancroft.
- NZPA
