Edinburgh sign Scotland qualified Hurricanes centre Riley Higgins

Riley Higgins is aiming to “grow his game” at Edinburgh after signing from Super Rugby Pacific side Hurricanes on a three-year deal.

The 23-year-old centre, who qualifies for Scotland through his Ayrshire-born grandmother, is set to join the capital club for the 2026-27 season subject to a visa.

In 2024-25, Higgins was called up to the All Blacks XV, starting at inside centre in a 31–13 away victory over Georgia, and Edinburgh described the signing as representing “one of the most significant pieces of recruitment in Edinburgh Rugby’s recent history”.

Higgins told edinburghrugby.org: “I can’t wait to get stuck in with Edinburgh.

“It’s a big move but the challenge of testing myself in a new competition, with such a great team and such passionate fans, is very exciting.

“The club has a great feel to it and I can’t wait to grow my game with Edinburgh Rugby over the next few years.

“I’m still young and learning but I’m hungry to improve as a player and person on and off the field, and help the team wherever I can in the hope of winning some titles.

“Fans can expect a hard-working player who will never give up, and someone who brings an exciting style of play. I can’t wait to see you all soon!”

The centre is the younger brother of Kienan Higgins, who joined Edinburgh on a short loan spell earlier this year.

Edinburgh head coach Sean Everitt added: “Riley is an outstanding talent and this is a significant signing for Edinburgh Rugby.

“He has already proven himself at the highest level in the southern hemisphere – a player who was keeping All Blacks out of the Hurricanes’ starting line-up before his 24th birthday – and we believe the best is still very much to come from him.

“The fact that he has chosen to turn down a potential All Blacks future, and has rejected higher offers elsewhere, to come to Edinburgh tells you everything about his ambition to succeed in Scotland.

“We worked enormously hard over many months to get this deal over the line, and I’m delighted we’ve got it done.

“At 23, Riley still has room to grow and I genuinely believe the best is still to come from him.

“Alongside guys like Matt Currie and Mosese Tuipulotu, we are building something really exciting in our midfield and I know our supporters will enjoy watching this group develop together. I can’t wait to have him with us this summer.”