Highlanders appoint Tom Donnelly as forwards coach

Highlanders have announced that former New Zealand international Tom Donnelly has been appointed the forwards coach of the club for the 2023 and 2024 seasons.

Having made his provincial rugby debut with Otago in 2002, he has featured for them in 82 games before heading overseas in 2014 to play in France. He also played in 65 games for the Highlanders between 2004 and 2011 apart from featuring for New Zealand in 15 Tests.

The 41-year-old started his coaching career as an assistant with Otago in 2017 before succeeding Ben Herring as chief coach in 2020. He also has the experience of being part of the backroom staff of New Zealand Under 20 side.

“I am extremely excited about this opportunity that the Highlanders have given me to join their coaching staff," he told the club's official website.

"I love representing this region and it’s a real privilege and honour to be involved with an organisation that means so much to me.

"I’m looking forward to this new challenge at Super Rugby level and it’s a real positive that while coaching Otago I have been fortunate to have already worked with many of the Highlanders players and coaching staff.

"Now I just want to get stuck into the challenges that lie ahead and contribute to a successful 2023 Super Rugby campaign.”