Riley Higgins faces season-ending shoulder surgery before Edinburgh move

Riley Higgins will play no further part in the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season after the Hurricanes confirmed the 23-year-old midfielder has undergone surgery on a recurring shoulder injury. The news comes months after Higgins signed a three-year contract with Scottish club Edinburgh, a move that will now begin with the player still in rehabilitation.

Higgins has made 19 appearances for the Hurricanes since his debut in 2022, but the past two campaigns have been disrupted by injury. He first drew attention with Wellington in the Bunnings NPC competition in 2022, going on to represent the New Zealand U20s that same year and earning one cap for the All Blacks XV under Clayton McMillan in 2024.

Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw said the timing was a blow for both the player and the club. “It’s disappointing for Riley and us for his season to finish in the way that it has,” Laidlaw said. “He’s had a tough couple of years with injuries, so to pick up another injury is super disappointing for him. We’ve been able to support him through this period before he takes off and help him with the initial part of his rehab. We feel for him and wish him well with his recovery as he prepares to head offshore.”

Higgins, speaking ahead of his move to Edinburgh, expressed genuine enthusiasm for the challenge despite the setback. “I can’t wait to get stuck in with Edinburgh. It’s a big move but the challenge of testing myself in a new competition, with such a great team and such passionate fans, is very exciting,” he said. “I’m still young and learning but I’m hungry to improve as a player and person on and off the field, and help the team wherever I can in the hope of winning some titles.”

The injury means Higgins will arrive at Edinburgh needing to complete his recovery before he can make his mark in the United Rugby Championship. At 23, and with international experience already on his résumé, the midfielder will be hoping a full pre-season with his new club can help him rediscover the form that first brought him to prominence.