The return of pivotal inside back Daniel Bowden from suspension has boosted the Highlanders ahead of their final Super 14 match against the Western Force in Perth on Sunday.

Bowden received a one-week suspension following a dangerous tackle on Sharks centre Riaan Swanepoel two weeks ago.

In other changes after the 10th-placed Highlanders' 27-22 loss to the Lions last week, Fetu'u Vainikolo returns in place of Kenny Lynn on the left wing while George Naoupu comes in at No.8 for Steven Setephano.

Mathew Berquist, still battling a back injury, is bracketed in the reserves with Jayden Hayward.

Highlanders: Israel Dagg, Ben Smith, Jason Shoemark, Johnny Leota, Fetu'u Vainikolo, Daniel Bowden, Jimmy Cowan (capt), George Naoupu, Alando Soakai, Adam Thomson, Tom Donnelly, Hayden Triggs, Clint Newland, David Hall, Jamie Mackintosh. Res: Jason Rutledge, Chris King, Josh Bekhuis, Steven Setephano, Sean Romans, Jayden Hayward/Matthew Berquist, Kendrick Lynn.

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