The Highlanders could field six debutants against the Brumbies when the Super 14 kicks off in Dunedin on Friday.
Highlanders to hand out debuts in Super 14 opener
Up to six players could make their Highlanders Super 14 debut against the Brumbies when the competition kicks off in Dunedin on Friday.
Coach Glenn Moore has named a raw-looking back-line, with the possibilty of five newcomers making their debut out wide.
In the forwards, Southland lock Josh Bekhuis will make his first Highlanders appearance in the absence of the injured Tom Donnelly.
Hawke's Bay full-back Israel Dagg and Otago winger Ben Smith are in the starting back-line, while talented Taranaki centre Jayden Haywards could also debut at Carisbrook, although he has been bracketed with the injured Johnny Leota.
On the reserves bench are two more uncapped players - scrum-half Sean Romans and utility back Kendrick Lynn.
Winger Fetu'u Vainikolo had been in doubt with a niggle but was named to start.
The side will be captained by All Blacks half-back Jimmy Cowan.
Highlanders: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Ben Smith, 13 Jason Shoemark, 12 Johnny Leota/Jayden Hayward, 11 Fetu'u Vainikolo, 10 Daniel Bowden, 9 Jimmy Cowan (c), 8 Steve Setephano, 7 Alando Soakai, 6 Adam Thomson, 5 Hayden Triggs, 4 Josh Bekhuis, 3 Clint Newland, 2 David Hall, 1 Jamie Mackintosh.
Replacements: 16 Jason Rutledge, 17 Chris King, 18 George Naoupu, 19 Tim Boys, 20 Sean Romans, 21 Hayward/Brett Mather, 22 Kenny Lynn.
