Kienan Higgins joins Edinburgh on a short-term deal

The 25-year-old midfielder joins the capital club from New Zealand’s National Provincial Championship (NPC) side Hawke’s Bay, where he played a pivotal role in their recent campaign, featuring in seven matches as the Magpies reached the semi-final stages of the competition.

Rugby runs in the family; Kienan is the older brother of Hurricanes and All Blacks XV standout Riley Higgins. His arrival provides further depth and competition in the midfield as Sean Everitt’s side enters a crucial period of the season.

Speaking on his move to the Scottish capital, Higgins said: “I am really excited to be joining Edinburgh Rugby. Having Scottish heritage, this is a proud moment for me and my family, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to test myself in a new environment.

“The Northern Hemisphere game offers a different set of challenges, and I’ve always wanted to try my hand at the style of rugby played in the URC and Europe.

“My goal is to hit the ground running, learn as much as I can from the quality players here, and add real value to the squad during my time in the city. I can’t wait to get started.”