Connacht sign league star

 

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, New Zealand Warriors.

 

The 23-year-old, whose grandmother was from Dublin, represented Ireland in the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.

 

Speaking about his move to Connacht 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".

 

Connacht 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 I have no doubt he will have a great opportunity to meet his challenge head on. 

 

"His professional rugby league experience will add another skillset to the squad and we look forward to him joint the squad for preseason."