Tonga international Fetuli Paea switches from Crusaders to Highlanders

Highlanders have confirmed the signing of Tonga international Fetuli Paea from rivals Crusaders ahead of the 2021 season.

Paea has played two Tests for Tonga in 2016 and 2017 and featured for Tasman in 2019. He made his debut for Crusaders in 2020 and made his debut for the side in the fourth round of Super Rugby Aotearoa game against Highlanders.

“I’m excited to be going down to the Highlanders after my Mitre 10 Cup season with Tasman. It’s a great new challenge and awesome opportunity that will help grow my rugby career further”, said Paea to the official website of the club.

Highlanders Coach Tony Brown is confident that the 26-year-old will benefit the club in the next two seasons.

“We are excited to secure someone of Fetuli’s ability for the next 2 years and are looking forward to helping him develop into a world class player," said Brown.

Highlanders finished the Super Rugby Aotearoa season fourth after managing three wins from eight games.