Billy Harmon lands a new position for Highlanders against Reds

The Highlanders head to Brisbane in what might just be a critical contest against the Reds as they look to keep up in the race for the playoffs.

In search of a winning formula amid the injury to Hugh Renton, Highlanders coach Clarke Dermody has opted to shift captain Billy Harmon to No. 8 for the contest. Harmon spent much of Canterbury’s NPC season in the position but has made a Super Rugby career out of his work in the No. 7 jersey.

Further changes can be found in the backline, with All Black hopefuls Folau Fakatava and Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens shifted to the bench, making way for James Arscott at halfback and Connor Garden-Bachop at fullback.

Ricky Jackson has also been promoted to the starting unit, in favour of Henry Bell who is set to feature off the bench.

Highlanders team to face Reds

1. Ethan de Groot
2. Ricky Jackson
3. Saula Ma’u
4. Hugo Plummer
5. Pari Pari Parkinson
6. Oliver Haig
7. Sean Withy
8. Billy Harmon (C)
9. James Arscott
10. Cameron Millar
11. Jona Nareki
12. Sam Gilbert (VC)
13. Tanielu Tele’a
14. Timoci Tavatavanawai
15. Connor Garden-Bachop

 RESERVES

16. Henry Bell
17. Daniel Lienert-Brown
18. Rohan Wingham
19. Will Stodart
20. Nikora Broughton
21. Folau Fakatava
22. Ajay Faleafaga
23. Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens

Injured/unavailable: Fabian Holland (HIA protocols), Tom Sanders (HIA protocols), Hugh Renton (ankle), Jermaine Ainsley (back), Nathan Hastie (shoulder), Jonah Lowe (knee) Josh Timu (HIA protocols)