Listen & read
Hurricanes boss Clark Laidlaw reveals the northern hemisphere's aggressive recruitment strategy is making it tough to retain key players. Here’s why this trend could reshape New Zealand rugby for years to come.
Laidlaw confirms that talented centre Riley Higgins will leave the Wellington franchise to join Edinburgh on a three-year deal, capitalizing on his Scottish eligibility. At just 23, Higgins follows in the footsteps of other New Zealand-born players, like Fergus Burke and Tom Jordan, who have donned the Scottish jersey. Laidlaw highlights that financial incentives from overseas clubs often lure players away.
“They can probably offer more money than us,” Laidlaw states, pointing to the challenging landscape for franchises. He compares Higgins's situation to that of Hoskins Sotutu and questions the sustainability of keeping “middle tier” players in light of these aggressive recruitment tactics.
Higgins’ decision to join Edinburgh stems from a desire for more opportunities on the field, especially with Jordie Barrett ahead of him in the pecking order. Despite Hurricanes’ efforts to retain him with a two-year contract, Higgins aims to prove himself at the international level, showcasing the ongoing challenge for New Zealand rugby in holding onto its rising stars.
Comments (0)