Newcastle sign Hurricanes prop for 2026-27 season

Newcastle Red Bulls have signed Pouri Rakete-Stones on a two-year contract from Super Rugby side Hurricanes from the beginning of the 2026-27 Prem season.

The 28-year-old prop has represented the Maori All Blacks and an All Blacks XV, but not the full New Zealand team.

Rakete-Stones, who can operate on both sides of the scrum, has also played more than 50 games for the Wellington-based Hurricanes.

"Signing with Newcastle Red Bulls is an exciting chapter," he told the club's website.

"They're building something great, and I can't wait to add to it. I'm really looking forward to working hard with this group and making our fans proud."

Rakete-Stones is the 10th new player that Newcastle have signed for the 2026-27 season, with six from other Prem clubs and four, including Rakete-Stones, from overseas.

They are bottom of the Prem and visit Saracens on Saturday (15:00 GMT).