FORSYTH BARR STADIUM, DUNEDIN, NZ SATURDAY MARCH 16th 2024
Brumbies vs. Highlanders: Team News and Predictions
Brumbies Seek Redemption After Disappointing Start
After suffering a defeat at the hands of the Chiefs in Melbourne and narrowly avoiding being overrun by the Force last week, the Brumbies have showcased a performance well below their usual standard since the opening round. This has prompted Stephen Larkham to implement several changes ahead of their match against the Highlanders.
Larkham’s Tactical Changes
In a bid to end on a high note, Larkham has opted to give a boost to young Wallabies Blake Schoupp and Billy Pollard, while James Slipper and Lachlan Lonergan will provide backup from the bench. Additionally, Caderyn Neville will step into a starting position alongside Jahrome Brown, with Darcy Swain set to contribute from the bench.
Highlanders Welcome Back Captain Harmon
Highlanders’ captain Billy Harmon is back in action after facing disciplinary issues last week, while Cam Millar takes on the No.10 position in place of Rhys Patchell, who is resting.
Team Line-Ups
Brumbies
Tom Wright, Andy Muirhead, Len Ikitau, Tamati Tua, Corey Toole, Noah Lolesio, Ryan Lonergan, Rob Valetini, Jahrome Brown, Tom Hooper, Caderyn Neville, Nick Frost, Sosefo Kautai, Billy Pollard, Blake Shoupp.
Reserves. Lachlan Lonergan, James Slipper, Rhys Van Nek, Darcy Swain, Rory Scott, Harrison Goddard, Declan Meredith, Ollie Sapsford.
Highlanders
Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Tanielu Tele’a, Sam Gilbert, Martin Bogado, Cameron Millar, Folau Fakatava, Nikora Broughton, Billy Harmon, Tom Sanders, Max Hicks, Fabian Holland, Saula Ma’u, Jack Taylor, Ethan de Groot.
Reserves. Henry Bell, Ayden Johnstone, Jermaine Ainsley, Oliver Haig, Sean Withy, James Arscotti, Ajay Faleafaga, Connor Garden-Bachop.
Referee. Ben O’Keeffe
Assistant Referees. Stu Curran, Jackson Henshaw
TMO. Glenn Newman
PREDICTION.
Through three games both of these teams have been very inconsistent, showing flashes of skill mixed in with baffling errors that have to be held against them. Because they are at home in front of the ZOO crowd {students] I will go with the Highlanders, but only just
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