Louie Chapman signs two-year Edinburgh deal

Edinburgh Rugby have confirmed the signing of Crusaders scrum-half Louie Chapman on a two-year deal ahead of next season, subject to visa approval.

The 25-year-old will move from Super Rugby Pacific to Hive Stadium and becomes the club’s latest addition as Edinburgh continue to strengthen their squad.

Louie Chapman Joins Edinburgh Rugby

Chapman is Edinburgh’s third new signing announced in the space of a week, following the arrivals of Riley Higgins and Geordie Gwynn.

The scrum-half qualifies for Scotland through his Elgin-born grandmother, adding further significance to the move as Edinburgh recruit a player who is also eligible on the international front.

The New Zealander said he was excited to join a club with strong history and identity, adding that he is looking forward to meeting teammates, connecting with supporters and making an impact in Scotland.

“I’m so excited to be joining Edinburgh – a club with such a rich history and a real identity. 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.”

Louie Chapman Crusaders And NPC Career

Chapman came through the Crusaders Junior Knights programme after captaining Christchurch Boys’ High School and representing NZ Schools. He made his senior debut for Tasman Mako in 2020 and went on to make more than 40 appearances for the provincial side across six seasons.

His reputation grew further during the 2024-25 Bunnings NPC season, when he became a near-regular starter for Canterbury, starting 10 of 11 matches and scoring five tries as the team reached the final.

Edinburgh Back Louie Chapman Potential

Chapman made his Crusaders debut in 2023 and has featured five times in the current Super Rugby Pacific season.

Edinburgh head coach Sean Everitt said the scrum-half stands out for his maturity, game control and decision-making, adding that the competition he brings will improve the squad.

“We’re really excited to welcome Louie to Edinburgh. He has a huge amount of potential, but what stands out when you watch him is the maturity he brings – the control, the decision-making, the way he manages the game with tempo.

Chapman is expected to arrive in Edinburgh around the autumn, with the timing depending on Canterbury’s progress in the upcoming NPC campaign.