All Blacks XV forward joins defending Super Rugby Pacific champions

Defending Super Rugby Pacific champions the Hurricanes have added an All Blacks XV forward to their roster ahead of the 2027 season, with Oliver Haig making the move to the capital after a stint down south with the Highlanders.

Haig started at blindside flanker for the All Blacks XV in a 38-24 win over Irish club side Munster in late 2024, and the utility forward also spent time with the All Blacks as injury cover ahead of a Test away to Japan’s Brave Blossoms.

Perth-born and England-raised Haig was part of the New Zealand U20 side that won the 2022 Oceania Rugby U20 Championship in Australia, before suiting up on debut for Otago in the NPC later that year.

Haig has made 33 appearances in New Zealand’s provincial competition and spent four Super Rugby seasons with the Highlanders. The 24-year-old was initially called into the Landers as injury cover before being elevated to a full contract.

The loose forward has featured in more than 30 matches for the Highlanders but is now set for a new challenge with the defending Super Rugby Pacific champions, with the Hurricanes announcing the new signing on Thursday.

“When the team lost a number of players that had Super Rugby experience, it was important that we brought some players in who are ready for Super Rugby and are able to play from round one,” Hurricanes coach Clark Laidlaw said.

“That makes the opportunity to bring Oli here really exciting. He’s played a number of games for the Highlanders and represented the All Blacks XV, where he probably played his best rugby that caught our attention.

“Both CJ and Whoppa worked with him at the All Blacks XV and they rated his ability to play at that level, so we think he can really add to the team. He fits the game style we want to play in the loose forwards and we see him as somebody that can hit the ground running and add to the group for 2027.”

Haig was a key member of the Highlanders squad last season, starting a series of matches in the second row and loose forwards. The versatile forward was often named at No. 4 lock, with All Black Fabian Holland missing the entire season due to injury.

After making 14 appearances for the Landers, Haig returned to provincial rugby with Otago, making three consecutive starts at blindside flanker. But ahead of a match awa to ladder-leaders Hawke’s Bay, Haig has been named in the second row.

“I’m excited to be joining the Hurricanes in 2027,” Haig added.

“They’re a quality team with great coaches and players who all look like they play with enjoyment and passion. I look forward to going up to Wellington and getting stuck in.”