Edinburgh Rugby sign Riley Higgins from Hurricanes.

Edinburgh Rugby have signed Scottish-qualified centre Riley Higgins, who has played for the All Blacks XV, from the Hurricanes on a three-year deal.

The club say Higgins' arrival in the capital is "one of the most significant" signings they have made in "recent history".

The former New Zealand U20 international made his Super Rugby debut for the Hurricanes at just 19, earning the rare distinction of playing at that level before he had even featured in National Provincial Championship (NPC) rugby.

He went on to win his first NPC title with Wellington shortly after turning 20, before adding a second in 2023/24. 

In 2024/25, Higgins - the younger brother of Kienan Higgins, who joined Edinburgh on a short loan spell earlier this year - was called up to the All Blacks XV, starting at inside centre in a 31–13 away victory over Georgia.

On choosing to sign for Edinburgh, he said: "I can't wait to get stuck in with Edinburgh. It's a big move but the challenge of testing myself in a new competition, with such a great team and such passionate fans is very exciting.

"The club has a great feel to it, and I can't wait to grow my game with Edinburgh Rugby over the next few years.

"I'm still young and learning but I'm hungry to improve as a player and person on and off the field, and help the team wherever I can in the hope of winning some titles.

“Fans can expect a hard-working player who will never give up, and someone who brings an exciting style of play."

Confirmation of his arrival comes less than 48 hours after Scotland cap James Lang announced he would be leaving the club at the end of the season.

Edinburgh Rugby head coach Sean Everitt added: "Riley is an outstanding talent and this is a significant signing for Edinburgh Rugby.

"He has already proven himself at the highest level in the southern hemisphere – a player who was keeping All Blacks out of the Hurricanes' starting line-up before his 24th birthday – and we believe the best is still very much to come from him.

"The fact that he has chosen to turn down a potential All Blacks future, and has rejected higher offers elsewhere, to come to Edinburgh tells you everything about his ambition to succeed in Scotland.

"We worked enormously hard over many months to get this deal over the line, and I'm delighted we've got it done.

“At 23, Riley still has room to grow, and I genuinely believe the best is still to come from him. Alongside guys like Matt Currie and Mosese Tuipulotu, we are building something really exciting in our midfield, and I know our supporters will enjoy watching this group develop together.

"I can't wait to have him with us this summer."