Los Pumas lock Tomas Lavanini has signed with the Highlanders for the 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season.
Lavanini has made 91 test appearances for Argentina since making his debut in 2013, earning a reputation as an uncompromising lock with a sometimes dubious disciplinary record.
He meets the Highlanders’ needs perfectly as an experienced and tough operator to boost their options alongside Fabian Holland and Mitch Dunshea.
Highlanders head coach Jamie Joseph says the 32-year-old's arrival brings much-needed depth to their locking stocks, especially in an area where Holland and Dunshea have carried a heavy load over recent seasons.
He says his experience and physical presence will not only support the group but also help drive the kind of competitive environment that raises performance across the whole squad.
Joseph says as a seasoned campaigner, Lavani is built for the intensity of Super Rugby, and his reputation for physicality speaks volumes.
He adds that he is sure Lavani will embrace the challenge of the competition.
Lavanini has beaten the All Blacks twice during his career to date, starting in the famous win in Christchurch in 2022, and coming off the bench in the victory in Wellington last year.
Meanwhile, in the Rugby Championship this Saturday, the Wallabies will take on Argentina at 4.30pm, and the All Blacks will host the Springboks at 7.05pm at Eden Park.
[Source: Stuff.co.nz]
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