Dixon earns starting spot against Hurricanes after an impressive performance last week

After a man of the match performance off the bench in the Highlanders' win over the Crusaders last week, Elliot Dixon has earned his first start of the season.

Dixon will take the place of the injured Liam Squire and is one of the two new faces in the Highlanders starting side, with young prop Tyrel Lomax earning his place at tighthead prop.

The Highlanders are leading the New Zealand conference heading into the match, leading the Hurricanes and Crusaders by three points. The Crusaders, however, had played one more game than their counterparts.

Meanwhile, Waisake Naholo has been named again to start at right wing.

The Highlanders will take on the Hurricanes at 6.35pm tomorrow.

Highlanders: Daniel Lienert‑Brown, Liam Coltman, Tyrel Lomax, Jackson Hemopo, Tom Franklin, Elliot Dixon, Dillon Hunt, Luke Whitelock, Aaron Smith, Lima Sopoaga, Tevita Li, Teihorangi Walden, Rob Thompson, Waisake Naholo, Ben Smith (cc). Reserves: Ash Dixon (cc), Aki Seiuli, Siate Tokolahi, Shannon Frizell, Marino Mikaele‑Tu'u, Kayne Hammington, Josh Ioane, Matt Faddes.

Source: NZ Herald