Connacht Rugby sign Ireland qualified Api Pewhairangi

Connacht Rugby has announced the signing of Ireland qualified Api Pewhairangi.

The 23-year-old 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, who represented Ireland in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup, 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.”

Chief Executive Willie Ruane thinks Pewhairangi is an exciting addition to the squad, adding: "Api was incredibly proud to wear the green shirt of Ireland in the Rugby League World Cup and I have no doubt that he will wear the green shirt of Connacht Rugby with the same pride.”

Head coach Pat Lam said: “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. 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 and we look forward to him joining the squad for pre-season.”