SA coach snaps Crusaders scrumhalf for URC campaign
TRANSFER NEWS: One of the Crusaders’ scrumhalves will start a new chapter in his career next season.
Edinburgh confirmed that Louie Chapman will make the move to Hive Stadium next season, signing from the Super Rugby Pacific side on a two-year deal, subject to a visa.
The 25-year-old – who qualifies for Scotland through his Elgin-born Grandmother – is Edinburgh’s third new arrival announced in the space of a week, following the capture of Hurricanes centre Riley Higgins on a three-year deal and Scotland U20 back Geordie Gwynn, who joins from Ealing Trailfinders.
Chapman – a former Head Boy at Christchurch Boys’ High School, where he captained their first XV – represented NZ Schools before progressing through the Crusaders Junior Knights programme.
He made his senior debut for Tasman Mako in 2020 as injury cover and went on to accumulate more than 40 appearances for the Nelson-based provincial side across six seasons.
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Say hello to our newest signing, Louie Chapman 👋 pic.twitter.com/6KH0uXpIb8
— Edinburgh Rugby (@EdinburghRugby) April 28, 2026
The halfback’s stock rose sharply during the 2024/25 Bunnings NPC season, where he was a near ever-present for Canterbury, starting 10 of their 11 matches, scoring five tries as the province reached the final.
Chapman made his Crusaders Super Rugby debut in 2023 and has featured five times for the Christchurch franchise in the current 2025/26 season.
“He’s Scottish-qualified, which adds another layer to this signing,” said Edinburgh’s South African coach Sean Everitt.
“We want players who see Edinburgh as a place where they can grow and push for the highest level. Louie is someone who fits that profile.
“He will come in and challenge our existing scrumhalves, and that competition will make everyone better. He’s another high-quality addition to a squad we are building with real intent.”
Chapman is expected to arrive in Edinburgh later this year, with the timeline dependent on Canterbury’s progress in the NPC.
“I’m so excited to be joining Edinburgh – a club with such a rich history and a real identity,” said Chapman.
“I’ve been doing my research and the more I’ve learned about the place, the culture and what the club means to this city, the more I can’t wait to get there and be a part of it.
“I’m looking forward to meeting the boys, getting to know the fans and really throwing myself into everything that comes with playing in Scotland. It’s going to be a brilliant experience and I just want to get stuck in and contribute as quickly as I can.”
