The Highlanders have confirmed that former All Black Nehe Milner-Skudder will join their squad for the new Super Rugby Aotearoa competition and beyond, having signed a deal with the southerners through until the end of 2021.
Milner-Skudder inked a deal with French club Toulon back in 2018 but ongoing injury has prevented him from making his debut.
Now the cancellation of the Top 14 due to coronavirus has opened the door for the former Hurricane to make the shift south, where he'll continue his inury rehabilitation with an aim to return to the field during the revamped domestic Super Rugby competition, which begins next month.
"I've heard some unreal things about the club and the culture at the Highlanders," said the 29-year-old.
"I'm really looking forward to the move to Dunedin and embracing everything it has to offer. I'm excited for this new opportunity and can't wait to get into some mahi with the boys and lace up the boots for the Highlanders."
in 2015, Milner-Skudder took the test scene by storm, starring for the All Blacks in their Rugby World Cup triumph to earn World Rugby's Breakthrough Player of the Year award.
But the Manawatu product has since been plagued by injury, with a serious shoulder issue suffered against South Africa in 2017 preventing him from adding to his 13 test appearances.
Coach Aaron Mauger said Milner-Skudder's addition would be a perfect fit in Dunedin.
"This was a great opportunity to include a player with his experience into our squad," Mauger said.
"His style of play suits the way the Highlanders play the game, especially under the roof at Forsyth Barr Stadium, and we look forward to welcoming him into the team."
The Highlanders will kick off their revised 2020 campaign against the Chiefs in Dunedin on June 13.
Join us for live updates of every Super Rugby Aotearoa game from June 13
