Early-season bye 'not ideal' for the Highlanders, says coach Aaron Mauger1 NEWS The Highlanders were on fire going forward in their 41-34 win over the Blues in Dunedin on Friday night. DIANNE MANSON/GETTY IMAGES Highlanders centre Rob Thompson attempts to bust Sonny Bill Williams' tackle attempt in Dunedin on Friday night. Both Thompson and head coach Aaron Mauger said the team would much rather be playing next week, although don't expect the team to take a week off. READ MORE* Umaga rues yellow card* Highlanders pile misery on Blues* Mauger: expect tweaks to team* Mauger not feeling pressure* Thompson to start at centre"It's not ideal," Mauger said. DIANNE MANSON/GETTY IMAGES Highlanders head coach Aaron Mauger doesn't have a plan around resting his All Blacks for two games this season.

Source: Stuff February 23, 2018 20:37 UTC