Lock Joe Wheeler will make his 50th appearance for the Highlanders when he runs out against Super Rugby leaders the Crusaders in Dunedin.
His inclusion is the only change to the defending champions' starting 15 from their 26-13 win last weekend over previous competition front-runners the Chiefs.
A former Crusader, who is in his fourth season with the Highlanders, Wheeler comes in for Tom Franklin, who moves to the reserves for Friday night's match.
The bench also features the return of hard-running No.8 Liam Squire, who has recovered from a hip injury.
After back-to-back wins, the Highlanders are fourth in the Australasian group and holding one of the playoff wildcards.
Highlanders: Ben Smith (capt), Waisake Naholo, Matt Faddes, Malakai Fekitoa, Patrick Osborne, Lima Sopoaga, Aaron Smith, Luke Whitelock, Dan Pryor, Elliot Dixon, Joe Wheeler, Alex Ainley, Josh Hohneck, Ash Dixon, Daniel Lienert-Brown. Res: Greg Pleasants-Tate, Craig Millar, Siosiua Halanukonuka, Tom Franklin, Liam Squire, Fumiaki Tanaka, Marty Banks, Teihorangi Walden.
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