Connacht sign Ireland qualified Api Pewhairangi from rugby league

Connacht Rugby has announced the signing of Ireland qualified Api Pewhairangi (23). Pewhairangi 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. He had previously represented the Junior Kiwis.

Speaking about his move to Connacht Rugby, Api Pewhairangi said:

“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.”

Little is know of Pewhairangi on this side of the world but he appears to have played most of League rugby in the backs at five eighth (i.e. outhalf) or centre.

Pat Lam is quoted as saying ‘His professional rugby league experience will add another skill set to the squad and we look forward to him joint the squad for pre-season.’

Look out for more in next week’s papers.