Rugby: Joseph rings the changes

Andrew Hore. Photo / Getty Images

The Highlanders have made seven changes to their team to take on the Western Force in Perth tomorrow night.

Skipper Andrew Hore has gone to the bench with Liam Coltman to start while Tony Woodcock and Ma'afu Fia complete a new front row.

Josh Bekhuis comes back into lock after getting over a shoulder injury.

TJ Ioane will start on the blindside flank instead of Joe Wheeler.

In the backline Hayden Parker will wear the No 10 jersey instead of Colin Slade. Ma'a Nonu comes back, outside Parker, while Jason Emery will start on the right wing.

Veteran Brad Thorn will skipper the side.

The match against the Force is the battle between the two bottom sides, with the Highlanders in last place.

Highlanders: Ben Smith, Jason Emery, Tamati Ellison, Ma'a Nonu, Hosea Gear, Hayden Parker, Aaron Smith, Mose Tuiali'i, John Hardie, TJ Ioane, Josh Bekhuis, Brad Thorn (captain), Ma'afu Fia, Liam Coltman, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Andrew Hore, Bronson Murray, Joe Wheeler, Elliot Dixon, Fumiaki Tanaka, Colin Slade, Tino Nemani/Trent Renata.