Rugby: Thomson returns for Highlanders

Adam Thomson. Photo / Getty Images

All Black Adam Thomson will return for the Highlanders for Friday's clash against the Force in Dunedin.

The flanker was a late withdrawal from last weekend's loss to the Lions due to a rib injury. Thomson will play his 50th game for the Highlanders.

Thomson's return is one of two changes to the Highlanders lineup that lost to the Lions.

John Hardie also comes into the pack replacing Alando Soakai, who moves to the reserves. All Black Tom Donnelly comes back into the reserves, returning from a back injury.

The Highlanders will wear a new strip on Friday in their last appearance at Carisbrook.

Highlanders side:
1 Jamie Mackintosh (C), 2 Mo Schwalger, 3 Chris King, 4 Jarrad Hoeata, 5 Josh Bekhuis, 6 Adam Thomson, 7 John Hardie, 8 Nasi Manu, 9 Jimmy Cowan (VC), 10 Lima Sopoaga, 11 Siale Piutau, 12 Shaun Treeby, 13 Kendrick Lynn, 14 Kade Poki, 15 Ben Smith. Replacements: 16. Jason Rutledge, 17. Bronson Murray, 18. Tom Donnelly, 19. Nick Crosswell, 20. Aaron Smith, 21. Robbie Robinson, 22. Alando Soakai.

- HERALD ONLINE