Encouraging news for Highlanders

The Highlanders camp are breathing a collective sigh of relief.

Injury concerns surrounding loose forwards Craig Newby and Josh Blackie have eased today.

The pair have recovered well from knocks suffered in the loss to the Chiefs, and have been taken off the doubtful list for the team's next match.

Josh Blackie had picked up an elbow injury while Craig Newby suffered a bicep haematoma.

Meanwhile, Southland lock Kane Thompson has been added to the Highlanders for the remainder of the Super 14 rugby campaign to replace Andrew Blowers, coach Greg Cooper said today.

Thompson, originally from Wellington, played lock for Southland in last year's NPC, but has also played at No 8.

He had been in the Highlanders' wider training group.

Veteran flanker Blowers was withdrawn from the squad late last month because of a head injury.

He had recurring problems after suffer ing concussion in a clash with teammate Ben Blair in a warmup match against the Reds in February and withdrew late last month on medical advice.

The Highlanders play the Western Force at Carisbrook on Saturday.