The All Black Ben Smith says he's delighted to be back in the Highlanders' starting lineup for Sunday morning's Super Rugby playoff game against South Africans the Sharks in Durban.
Highlanders fullback Ben Smith. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The co-captain's return is one of five changes coach Jamie Joseph's made to his team.
Smith returns to the starting line-up at fullback after a leg infection resulted in him missing the final regular season clash against the Crusaders in Christchurch last weekend.
He says the timing of the lay-off wasn't good and he was frustrated, but he's trained well this week and is excited about the challenge ahead of them.
Lima Sopoaga gets a recall at first-five and will be partnered by Phil Burleigh at second-five. Trent Renata moves back to the bench as utility cover.
There are two changes to the forward pack; with Ged Robinson to start at hooker and Jarrad Hoeata at lock.
Tom Franklin moves onto the bench.
This will be the Highlanders' second trip to the Sharks' home this year, and the team will be hoping to produce another performance like the round 11 match-up that saw the Highlanders win 34-18.
Highlanders:
1 - Kane Hames
2 - Ged Robinson
3 - Chris King
4 - Jarrad Hoeata
5 - Joe Wheeler
6 - Elliot Dixon
7 - Shane Christie
8 - Nasi Manu (co-captain)
9 - Aaron Smith
10 - Lima Sopoaga
11 - Patrick Osborne
12 - Phil Burleigh
13 - Malakai Fekitoa
14 - Richard Buckman
15 - Ben Smith (co-captain)
Reserves:
16 - Liam Coltman
17 - Matias Diaz
18 - JP Koen
19 - Josh Bekhuis
20 - Tom Franklin
21 - Fumiaki Tanaka
22 - Trent Renata
23 - Gareth Evans
