Connacht have signed Ireland qualified Api Pewhairangi. The 23-year-old utility back played rugby union as a youth in Manawatu but switched to rugby league at the age of 17, when he moved to Wellington's Te Aroha Eels. He has since played for Parramatta Eels and most recently,NZ Warriors.
Pewhairangi, whose grandmother was from Lucan, Co Dublin, represented Ireland in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup and previously represented the Junior Kiwis.
“I am proud to be returning to Ireland, my grandmother’s homeland. Joining Connacht is extremely exciting for me and I want to make a big impact,” said Pewhairangi.
Connacht coach Pat Lam expects his new player's rugby league experience will add to the squad but acknowledges that he will still have to adapt to playing union rugby with the province.
“At 23 Api has already achieved a lot on and off the field. He has played in the tough NRL competition, represented Ireland in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup and graduated with Bachelor of Arts degree,” said Lam.
“He is keen for a new challenge in transitioning back to rugby union where he spent his youth playing.”
“With our big focus on skill development and continued learning and understanding of the game here at Connacht rugby I have no doubt he will have a great opportunity to meet his challenge head on. His professional rugby league experience will add another skill set to the squad.”
