Hugh Renton will make his comeback after a long injury layoff. Photo: Peter McIntoshThe Highlanders have a Hugh-ge addition to their team this week. Star No 8 and co-captain Hugh Renton will make his long-awaited comeback from injury when he starts against the Hurricanes at Forsyth Barr Stadium on Friday night. Renton played just seven games for the Highlanders across the 2024 and 2025 seasons due to ankle and groin injuries, and his last Super Rugby appearance was against the Chiefs in Hamilton on April 19 last year. Canterbury first five/fullback Andrew Knewstubb makes his first appearance on the bench and will make his Super Rugby debut at the age of 30 after a long career in sevens.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 18, 2026 10:09 UTC