I don't know how to beat the new Kensei with Highlander. Defensive stance is too slow to really do anything, and I can't dodge his attacks in offensive form. I also can't play at range against him because he has the advantage in that situation too. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Yes, it will be hard to beat Kensei for Highlander. It is really bad matchup if meet Kensei.
In Dominion, Highlander can still win by having Winner Advantage Feats, since the damage will be huge for Kensei/Opponent. but for Duel, still very difficult for high-level kensei to be beaten.
Caber toss and balors might are not very useful when playing againts kensei, since kensei can dodge any of highlander attacks. Combination of Celtic curse also can be dodged easily.
Therefore, Crushing Counter might be suitable to play againts him. yes i know it's not easy, defeating kensei by highlander is not easy at all. Even fighting with low Reputation Kensei.