Blowers loss a setback for Highlanders

The Highlanders have suffered a big blow ahead of Sunday morning's Super 14 match against the Cheetahs in Bloemfontein.

Andrew Blowers has been ruled out of the tour, having not fully recovered from the head knock he suffered pre-season.

He was set to make his return this weekend, but is instead flying home with Hale T Pole joining the squad in South Africa.

Coach Greg Cooper said Blowers is not fully recovered.

He said he trained on Monday with no effects, but on Wednesday he was not quite 100 per cent and suffered a few symptoms.

Greg Cooper has made three changes to the side with Filipo Levi replacing the suspended Craig Newby at the back of the scrum.

Chris Smylie returns from injury to replace Jimmy Cowan at halfback and Clarke Dermody is in for Nick White at loosehead prop.

- NEWSTALK ZB