First-five Bryn Gatland will leave the Blues, having signed for the Highlanders on a two-year deal.
With incumbent first-five Lima Sopoaga leaving the Dunedin-based side at the end of the current season for English side Wasps, the Highlanders have cast one eye to the future, snaring Gatland, 22, to replace the outgoing All Black.
The 22-year-old had an outstanding game against the Highlanders, scoring a try in his side's 41-34 loss. (Source: Other)
Gatland impressed for the Blues at the beginning of the 2018 season, starting the side's first few games, before finding himself relegated out of the playing side in favour of fellow young-gun, Stephen Perofeta.
Gatland will be joined at the Highlanders by Hawke's Bay loose forward Mikaele Tu'u, already with the side as an injury replacement, as well as Fijian winger Tevita Nabura, also signing a fully contracted player.
"These guys have already shown a lot of potential at Super Rugby level this season we are confident that the more time they spend in our programme the more their game will grow. All three are great prospects for the future," said Highlanders chief executive Roger Clark.
SHARE ME