Former Russia coach lands Super Rugby Pacific gig in New Zealand

The Highlanders have found their next forwards coach in Boris Stankovich, who arrives in Dunedin on a two-year deal after stints in the Gallagher Prem, the international arena and Japan Rugby League One.

Jamie Joseph’s staff were without a forwards coach after former head coach Clarke Dermody’s Ulster move following the 2026 season.

Kiwi-born Stankovich has also spent time in Europe, operating as Leicester Tigers scrum coach between 2017 and 2020 after a stint as player/coach with Coventry in 2015. International opportunities with Canada at the 2019 Rugby World Cup and then Russia in 2021 followed, with a six-year career at NEC Green Rockets Tokatsu the most recent chapter in his career.

The former loosehead prop’s playing career featured a year at London Irish and a much more significant stint at Leicester Tigers, with seasons with France’s SC Graulhet and SC Albi in between.

“We’re looking forward to getting Boris on board, he has a reputation for delivering clarity, technical detail, and a calm authority to the set piece,” said Joseph.

“He understands how to build a pack that works for each other, and he’s passionate about developing players. He’ll add real value to our coaching group and our forward play. ”

Stankovich joins the Highlanders ahead of what is shaping up to be the most promising season in the club’s recent history, with marquee signings such as All Blacks Shannon Frizell and Josh Jacomb set to complement the development of some of New Zealand’s brightest rising stars in Lucas Casey and Caleb Tangitau.

“I feel incredibly privileged to join the Highlanders and represent such a proud region,” the 46-year-old said. “I’m excited to work alongside the coaches and players and help build a forward pack that reflects the toughness and spirit of the region.”

The Highlanders will kick off the 2027 season in Fiji against the Drua before hosting the Blues in their first home game of the campaign in round 2.