Smiths return to Highlanders XV

Ben Smith and Aaron Smith have returned to the Highlanders' starting lineup for Saturday's Super Rugby quarter-final against the Crusaders in Christchurch.

Coach Tony Brown has also named Richard Buckman on the left wing and Rob Thompson at inside centre.

The Highlanders lost both of their regular-season matches to the Crusaders – 30-27 in Dunedin and 25-22 in Christchurch.

Highlanders – 15 Ben Smith (c), 14 Waisake Naholo, 13 Malakai Fekitoa, 12 Rob Thompson, 11 Richard Buckman, 10 Lima Sopoaga, 9 Aaron Smith, 8 Luke Whiteock, 7 James Lentjes, 6 Liam Squire, 5 Tom Franklin, 4 Jackson Hemopo, 3 Siate Tokolahi, 2 Liam Coltman, 1 Daniel Lienert-Brown.
Subs: 16 Ash Dixon, 17 Aki Seiuli, 18 Siosuia Halanukonuka, 19 Alex Ainley, 20 Gareth Evans, 21 Elliot Dixon, 22 Kayne Hammington, 23 Marty Banks.

Super Rugby teams (Quarter-finals)

Photo: Getty Images

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