The All Blacks' promising future is temporarily on hold as Fabian Holland, a rising star in the team, will miss the entire Super Rugby Pacific season due to a shoulder injury. This news comes as a significant setback for the Highlanders, who were gearing up for their campaign, and the All Blacks, who will be without Holland's services for crucial matches. Holland, named World Rugby's Breakthrough Player of the Year in 2025, was set to make his mark in the upcoming season. However, his absence will be felt across the tournament, particularly in the All Blacks' three July Nations Championship matches in New Zealand against France, Italy, and Ireland.
The injury has led to a strategic reshuffling of the Highlanders' lineup. Head coach Jamie Joseph has chosen Mitch Dunshea and Oliver Haig as the starting locks for their upcoming New Zealand derby against the Crusaders. Meanwhile, All Blacks tighthead prop Angus Ta'avao is set to make his debut for the Highlanders, joining forces with international teammates Ethan de Groot and Jack Taylor in the front-row. The pack also includes co-captain Sean Withy and Te Kamaka Howden on the flanks, with Lucas Casey making his debut at number eight.
In the backline, Timoci Tavatavanawai, a co-captain and starting inside center, is set to make his 50th appearance for the Highlanders, a memorable milestone. He will be joined by Jonah Lowe in the midfield, who will wear the number 13 jersey. Tavatavanawai expressed his excitement about the upcoming match, highlighting the importance of the fixture for the team.
The Highlanders' team to face the Crusaders includes a strong lineup, with Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, Caleb Tangitau, Jona Nareki, and Cameron Millar in key positions. Folau Fakatava and Cameron Millar are named as the starting halfbacks, while the back three features an exciting combination of speed and experience with Tangitau, Nareki, and Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens. Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph is eager to take on the defending champions, the Crusaders, and is confident in his team's preparation and spirit.
The match, scheduled for Friday, February 13, at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin, promises an intense and highly anticipated showdown. With the All Blacks and the Highlanders both facing challenges, the tournament is set to be a thrilling spectacle, leaving fans eager for the action to unfold.
