The Highlanders are set to kick off their 2025 Super Rugby Pacific campaign with an exciting clash against the NSW Waratahs in Sydney this Friday night. Head Coach Jamie Joseph has unveiled a dynamic lineup that blends seasoned experience with fresh talent, aiming to make a strong statement in the opening round.
Key Highlights:
- Leadership: Co-captains Hugh Renton and Timoci Tavatavanawai will lead the side, starting at number 8 and inside centre, respectively.
- Debutants: The match will feature several players making their first appearance for the Highlanders:
- Starting XV Debuts:
- Soane Mikaele Vikena (Hooker)
- Taine Robinson (Fly-half)
- Caleb Tangitau (Left Wing)
- Super Rugby Pacific Debuts:
- Michael Manson (Right Wing)
- Lui Naeata (Blindside Flanker)
- Starting XV Debuts:
- Front Row Strength: All Black prop Ethan de Groot anchors the scrum at loosehead, alongside Saula Ma’u at tighthead prop, promising a formidable front row.
- Backline Dynamics: The backline features a mix of agility and power, with Sam Gilbert at fullback, Tanielu Tele’a at outside centre, and the debutant duo of Tangitau and Manson on the wings.
Starting XV:
- Ethan de Groot
- Soane Mikaele Vikena
- Saula Ma’u
- Fabian Holland
- Mitch Dunshea
- Lui Naeata
- Sean Withy
- Hugh Renton (Co-Captain)
- Nathan Hastie
- Taine Robinson
- Caleb Tangitau
- Timoci Tavatavanawai (Co-Captain)
- Tanielu Tele’a
- Michael Manson
- Sam Gilbert
Reserves:
- Henry Bell
- Daniel Lienert-Brown
- Sefo Kautai
- Nikora Broughton
- Veveni Lasaqa
- Folau Fakatava
- Cameron Millar
- Finn Hurley
Coach’s Insight:
Jamie Joseph expressed confidence in the squad’s preparation:
“We are excited to get our season underway. There’s a lot of enthusiasm and energy around the squad as we prepare for a tough opener against the Waratahs. We’ve named a mix of debutants and experienced players to provide us with the understanding and creativity needed to take on a team full of international players.”
Match Details:
- Date and Time: Friday, 14th February, 7:35 PM AEDT (9:35 PM NZT)
- Venue: Allianz Stadium, Sydney
As the Highlanders embark on their 2025 journey, fans eagerly anticipate a compelling performance that sets a positive tone for the season ahead.anders as they aim to secure a victory against the Blues.
Read more: https://thehighlanders.co.nz/news/highlanders-name-team-for-season-opener-against-the-waratahs/
