Three-Test Wallaby returns to Highlanders after Top 14 stint

The Highlanders have announced the signing of Jermaine Ainsley, who previously played 38 games for the club between 2022 and ’24, on a two-year deal.

The 30-year-old tighthead has spent the past two seasons with Lyon in the Top 14, starting 26 of 36 games for the club.

Plying his trade in Australia between 2016 and 2020, firstly at the Western Force and then at the Melbourne Rebels, Ainsley earned three Wallabies caps in 2018 with a bench appearance against the All Blacks at tighthead and two subsequent showings off the pine against England and Italy at loosehead.

“Having Jermaine back is a major boost,” Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph said of the signing. “He’s a competitor, he’s durable, and he’s played a lot of high-level rugby. He’ll add leadership to our pack and help drive the standards we’re setting for 2027 and beyond.”

A Maori All Black during his time in New Zealand, Ainsley has also signed with Canterbury and will line up for the defending champions in the coming NPC campaign.

He says he’s thrilled to be heading back to Dunedin in 2027.

“My family and I are excited to be joining the Highlanders. I didn’t think I’d ever get the opportunity to play in New Zealand again, let alone for the Highlanders, so I’m really looking forward to this next chapter. I can’t wait to rip in with the team next season. It looks like a pretty strong squad that’s been growing over the last few seasons.”

The signing follows a burst of re-signing announcements at the club, which has been the most active recruiter in Super Rugby since Joseph returned from his time with the Brave Blossoms in Japan.

Highlanders’ recent re-signings

Lucas Casey – 2029
Dylan Pledger – 2029
Veveni Lasaqa – 2029
Mika Muliaina – 2029
Finn Hurley – 2028
Caleb Tangitau – 2028
Adam Lennox – 2028
Sean Withy – 2028
Will Stodart – 2028
Josh Tengblad – 2028
Jack Taylor – 2028
Josh Bartlett – 2028
Angus Ta’avao – 2027
Henry Bell – 2027
Tomás Lavanini – 2027