Edinburgh turn to Ranfurly Shield winner amid centre crisis

Scottish-qualified, New Zealand-born centre Kienan Higgins has joined Edinburgh on a short-term contract, with immediate effect, to help bolster their midfield options.

Matt Currie suffered a hamstring injury in their Champions Cup victory over Gloucester on Friday, while Mosese Tuipulotu (knee) and academy prospect Findlay Thomson (hand) are also currently sidelined, along with Charlie McCaig, who suffered a season-ending knee injury soon after arriving from Exeter, leaving the capital club with only two fit centres – James Lang and Piers O’Conor.

Higgins has had five seasons in the National Provincial Championship with Hawke’s Bay Magpies, winning the Ranfurly Shield, and has signed with New England Free Jacks for the 2026 MLR season, which begins at the end of March.

The 25-year-old is the older brother of Hurricanes and All Blacks XV standout Riley Higgins.

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.”