Two new players of Fijian heritage are among the five fresh recruits in the Highlanders squad for next year’s Super Rugby Pacific competition.
Hooker Soane Vikena and flanker Veveni Lasaqa have signed contracts for the next two years. Vikena, originally from Nasilai in Rewa, was part of the Blues squad that secured the Super Rugby title. He has an impressive track record, having been a member of the Blues Under-20s and earning the Blues Development Player of the Year in 2020. He represented the New Zealand U20 team from 2020 to 2021 and played for Auckland in the National Provincial Championship. Vikena made his Super Rugby debut for the Blues in 2021 against the Crusaders. He is known for his energy, strong open-field running, excellent tackling, and precise line-out throws.
Lasaqa made his Super Rugby debut this year against the Reds. The 22-year-old has also played for Bay of Plenty in the NPC. Born in Lautoka, Lasaqa moved to New Zealand to attend Tauranga Boys’ College.
The Highlanders’ other new recruits include Will Stoddart, former New Zealand sevens rugby winger Caleb Tangitau, and Josh Wahaanga.