Kienan Higgins returns to Edinburgh on one-year deal after Major League Rugby stint

Kienan Higgins has signed a one-year contract with Edinburgh, returning to Hive Stadium after a spell with Major League Rugby side New England Free Jacks ahead of the 2026/27 season.

The 26-year-old New Zealander, who qualifies for Scotland, first joined Edinburgh on a short-term basis in January, arriving from Hawke’s Bay in New Zealand’s National Provincial Championship. He went on to start all seven of his appearances at inside centre for the Free Jacks before agreeing to come back to the Scottish capital on a longer-term footing.

Higgins will be joined at the club by his younger brother Riley, who put pen to paper on a three-year deal in April, making the reunion a family affair.

“I am absolutely delighted to be coming back to Edinburgh,” Kienan said. “I loved my time here earlier in the season and I can’t wait to see the squad again — there are some brilliant people at this club. It’s obviously an incredible bonus that I get to come back alongside Riley; to play alongside my brother at the same club is something pretty special.”

He also paid tribute to his time in America: “I’ve really enjoyed my time with the Free Jacks and I’m grateful to everyone there for the experience, but Edinburgh is where I want to be. I’m looking forward to getting stuck in this summer and being back in the city.”

Head coach Sean Everitt welcomed the signing, highlighting the impact Higgins made during his initial stint. “He made a strong impression during his spell with us and we’re excited about what he can bring to the squad on a longer-term basis,” Everitt said. “He will add further competition in what is already a very competitive midfield group.”