The Highlanders sign trio of New Zealand U20 standouts

The Highlanders have continued to recruit some of the finest talent coming through New Zealand’s ranks, this week locking in a trio of New Zealand U20 talents.

Local product Dylan Pledger is joined by Auckland’s Josh Tengblad and Wellington’s Stanley Solomon as the new signings ahead of the 2026 season.

Each has impressed Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph, who has been actively recruiting players from across New Zealand since his return to Dunedin after the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

“We’ve been watching Dylan, Josh and Stanley closely – they’re all outstanding young men who have absolutely earned this opportunity,” the coach said.

“What they’ve achieved in their short rugby careers demonstrates they have the temperament and skill to take the next step in their professional careers. We’re excited to welcome them into the Highlanders environment.”

Pledger owned the starting halfback position in each of the New Zealand U20S’ two recent campaigns, emerging from the age-grade setup as one of the country’s brightest prospects. Now a starter for Otago’s NPC outfit, he joins former All Black Folau Fakatava in the scrumhalves cohort at the Highlanders, and fills a gap left by departing Otago teammate Nathan Hastie.

“Growing up in Dunedin, the Highlanders have always been the team I aspired to play for. To now have the chance to be part of the squad is a dream come true. I’m excited to keep learning and to challenge myself at the next level,” said Pledger.

Tengblad was also named in the 2025 World Rugby U20 Championship as a lock. Standing north of 200 cm tall, he’ll join new All Black Fabian Holland in a big second-row unit. He joins the Highlanders on a three-year contract, as opposed to the other two players’ two-year deals.

“Signing with the Highlanders is such a massive honour. I’ve loved being part of the U20s the past couple of years, and now I’m just really excited for the chance to step up, learn heaps, and contribute in a fully professional environment over the next few seasons,” Tengblad said.

Solomon has been a high-energy player for the Kiwi age-grade teams and in Wellington’s title-winning NPC effort a season ago, bringing pace and attacking instinct to each of his teams to date.

“I am buzzing to join the Highlanders, and I can’t wait to rip in, earn respect and represent the South with pride. It’s time to get to work,” said Solomon.