Naholo was named to start on the right wing for the Highlanders against the touring British and Irish Lions on 13 June 2017.

Naholo scored a try off a 10-meter run in the 25th minute, with Irish fullback Jared Payne and forwards CJ Stander and Courtney Lawes all failing to stop Naholo from scoring five points.

After a dominant 80-minute game including his try and a huge defensive performance, Naholo was a clear standout in the game, winning the award for Man of the Match against the Lions.