The Highlanders will have to do without in-form flanker Adam Thomson for their Super Rugby match against the Crusaders at Nelson on Saturday.

Thomson has missed the match day 22 named by coach Jamie Joseph because of deep bruising to a thigh.

His enforced absence leaves the Highlanders without one of their most inspiring figures, with Thomson in tremendous form as the Highlanders have surprised all and sundry by winning six of their eight matches to date.

Joseph has made six personnel changes from the 15 who started the 40-18 win over Melbourne Rebels last weekend, with the coach opting to rest hard working hooker Jason Rutledge, who is on the bench with Mo Schwalger named in his place.

Lock Tom Donnelly returns to the starting 15 with Jarrad Hoeata moving to the blindside flank to cover for both Thomson and Alando Soakai, who is carrying a shoulder injury.

John Hardie will start at openside flanker while Tony Brown has been brought back into the squad as cover for Colin Slade, who broke his jaw against the Rebels.

Brown will start at first five-eighth on Saturday, Ben Smith will move from fullback to second-five, replacing Shaun Treeby, who injured his knee against the Rebels.

Robbie Robinson comes into the starting 15 at fullback to cover Smith's move to No.12.

James Paterson also makes the starting line-up on the right wing, with Kade Poki out of contention because of a knee injury.

The reserves bench also has a new look, with Tim Boys, Matt Saunders and Sean Romans all joining the 22.

Highlanders: Robbie Robinson, James Paterson, Kendrick Lynn, Ben Smith, Siale Piutau, Tony Brown, Aaron Smith, Nasi Manu, John Hardie, Jarrad Hoeata, Josh Bekhuis, Tom Donnelly, Chris King, Mo Schwalger, Jamie Mackintosh (capt). Res: Jason Rutledge, David Te Moana, Nick Crosswell, Tim Boys, Sean Romans, Matt Saunders, Telusa Veainu.

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