Hooker Andrew Hore will make his return from a rib injury to skipper the Highlanders against Queensland in their Super Rugby clash on Friday night in Dunedin.
Hore’s inclusion is one of three changes to the Highlanders starting 15 after their 19-7 defeat to defending champions the Chiefs in Hamilton last Friday.
Fellow All Black Tony Woodcock, a late withdrawal against the Chiefs because of a hamstring issue, is back at loosehead prop.
In the backs, Buxton Popoalii comes in on the right wing for Kade Poki, who has a rib injury.
The Highlanders go into the match against the fourth-placed Reds seeking their first win of the season after four defeats.
Highlanders: Ben Smith, Buxton Popoalii, Jason Emery, Ma’a Nonu, Hosea Gear, Colin Slade, Aaron Smith, Elliot Dixon, John Hardie, Jarrad Hoeata, Josh Bekhuis, Brad Thorn, Chris King, Andrew Hore (capt), Tony Woodcock Res: Liam Coltman, Ma’afu Fia, TJ Ioane, Tim Boys, Fumiaki Tanaka, Lima Sopoaga, Phil Burleigh.