Hurricanes break silence on Riley Higgins' move to Edinburgh and plans for rest of season

However, Laidlaw wished the former All Blacks under-20 international and his family all the best for their future in Scotland. The capital club announced on Sunday that the 23-year-old Scotland qualified player would be joining them on a three-year deal from next season.

Higgins’ arrival at the Hive has been described as “one of the most significant pieces of recruitment in Edinburgh Rugby's recent history” by the club, with head coach Sean Everitt describing him as “an outstanding talent”.

Hurricanes head coach wishes Edinburgh bound centre all the best

Higgins will remain available for Hurricanes, who are currently battling it out at the top of the Super Rugby standings alongside the Chiefs and the Blues, for the remainder of their 2026 campaign, with an official statement from the Wellington club saying he will “play a key role on and off the field.” Meanwhile, Laidlaw has described the moved to Edinburgh as “everything he [Higgins] is after”.

He said: “While it’s disappointing to lose someone who’s come through both the Wellington and Hurricanes systems, we’re supportive of Riley’s decision and we genuinely wish him and his partner Stella all the best.

“He made his debut when he was 19 and has become a real attacking threat over the past couple of years. He had a tough year last year with injuries, but he’s played some really good rugby for the Hurricanes.

“He’s decided that his time in New Zealand has come to an end at this stage. We hope both Edinburgh and his overseas experience is everything he’s after and that he succeeds in this next chapter of his career.”

Hurricanes pushed Higgins to grow as Scotland qualified centre prepares for Edinburgh switch

Edinburgh fans first heard from their new signing when the club confirmed the deal on Sunday. Shortly after, Higgins also addressed Hurricanes fans on his departure.

“Wearing the Hurricanes jersey has shaped me in many ways,” the outgoing centre said. “This club, the people, and the fans pushed me to grow as a player and as a person. I’ll hold onto that forever.

“I’m really excited for my new chapter over in Edinburgh. It’s an awesome opportunity for my partner and I to move to a historic city and a great club. My focus remains on helping the Hurricanes finish what has been a great start to the year and representing the Wellington Lions in the NPC.

“I’d like to thank the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby for allowing me to pursue my dream of being a professional rugby player. The Hurricanes and Wellington are all I’ve known and I am proud of what I have done in New Zealand.”

The move looks set to not only be a significant addition for Edinburgh but one that will potentially boost Gregor Townsend’s already strong midfield options with the men’s national team. Higgins is eligible to play for Scotland through his Ayrshire-born grandmother, meaning he can be called up at any point.

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