Rugby: Highlanders make one change

Kade Poki. Photo / Getty Images

The Highlanders have made just one change to their team to face the Stormers on Saturday morning.

Winger Kade Poki, who scored two tries in the side's 35-28 win over the Bulls last week, has been replaced by James Paterson due to a leg injury.

Paterson has been moved to the right wing with Siale Piutau shifting sides after playing in the 14 jersey last week.

Meanwhile midfield back Matt Saunders is returning home early after the sudden death of his father on Tuesday.

"At this sad time our thoughts are with Matt and the Saunders family," Highlanders general manager Roger Clark said today.

As a mark of respect the Highlanders will wear black armbands during the game.

Saunders is expected back in New Zealand tomorrow.

Highlanders: 15 Ben Smith, 14 James Paterson, 13 Kendrick Lynn, 12 Shaun Treeby, 11 Siale Piutau, 10 Robbie Robinson, 9 Jimmy Cowan, 8 Nasi Manu, 7 Alando Soakai, 6 Adam Thomson, 5 Josh Bekhuis, 4 Jarrad Hoeata, 3 Chris King, 2 Jason Rutledge, 1 Jamie Mackintosh.

Reserves: Mahonri Schwalger, Bronson Murray, Tom Donnelly, John Hardie, Aaron Smith, Tony Brown, Telusa Veainu.