Eight new players

Eight new Highlanders in 2018

Makos forwards Shannon Frizell, Pari Pari Parkinson and Tyrel Lomax join McKay, while Counties prop Kalolo Tuiloma, Counties outside back Tevita Nabura and Wellington midfielder Thomas Umaga-Jensen are also new.

Otago first five-eighth Josh Ioane is the other new player, and will cover Lima Sopoaga and Fletcher Smith in the No 10 jersey. 

There is no space for former Highlanders co-captain Shane Christie, who didn't play at all last season due to an "illness".