Josh Moorby returns to Super Rugby after brief Montpellier excursion

The Hurricanes have announced the return of outside back Josh Moorby ahead of the 2026 season, just one year after losing the rising star to the deep pockets of Montpellier.

The 2022 ‘Canes Rookie of the Year has agreed to return on a two-year deal in the Kiwi capital, bolstering an outside back unit that needed some rebuilding after 2024’s star pairing, Moorby and Salesi Rayasi (Vannes), each made the move to France.

Kini Naholo and Ngane Punivai each took on bigger roles this season and were joined by former All Blacks Sevens speedster Fehi Fineanganofo. The trio proved to be one of the more destructive wing units in Super Rugby.

The 27-year-old spent his stint on France’s southern coast playing predominantly at fullback, a position currently occupied by All Blacks flyer Ruben Love at the Hurricanes.

But Wellington holds a special place for the Waikato local, who is donning his home region’s colours once more in the current NPC season.

“The Hurricanes are my rugby family,” Moorby said.

“They gave me my first chance at Super Rugby. I’m still grateful for that, and for this opportunity from Clark and management to be part of the Hurricanes again in 2026.

“I enjoyed my experience overseas, further developing my game and growing as a person. I’m excited to bring what I’ve learned over the past year onto the field in the upcoming season.”