Highlanders sign Tonga playmaker Pellegrini on two-year deal after Moana Pasifika exit

Patrick Pellegrini has signed a two-year deal with the Highlanders, ending a busy free-agent chase for the Tongan fly-half following Moana Pasifika’s confirmed exit from Super Rugby Pacific on 24 June.

Pellegrini, 27, started 11 of his 17 Tests for Tonga and made three bench appearances at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, establishing himself as one of the most accurate goal-kickers across his two seasons in Super Rugby Pacific. He also spent time as a game-driver at Coventry before his move to Moana Pasifika. Reports indicated he had attracted interest from clubs on both sides of the Tasman as well as sides in Europe and Japan before committing to Dunedin.

The signing adds further depth to a Highlanders backline that already includes Josh Jacomb, recruited as an All Blacks XV starter for the 2027 campaign, and rising talent Cam Millar. Head coach Jamie Joseph, who returned from Japan to take up an initial Director of Rugby role at the club before transitioning to head coach ahead of the 2025 season, has moved quickly to strengthen his options at ten.

“Patrick is a smart, composed No.10 who has proven himself in some of the toughest club competitions in the world,” Joseph said. “He’s grown his game significantly over the past few seasons and shown he can perform at the international level. We believe he’ll thrive in our environment and add real value to the group.”

Pellegrini said he was eager to contribute to a squad he sees as a club on the rise. “I’m really excited to be joining the Highlanders and taking on this new challenge,” he said. “It’s a real privilege to sign for such a great club, and I can’t wait to get to work with the boys, meet the fans and make a contribution to the club’s future success.”