All Blacks World Cup hopeful makes New Zealand return

The Highlanders have confirmed that he will rejoin the southern club for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season, adding to his 68 caps in the blue, gold and maroon.

The 33-Test All Blacks loose forward has signed a contract with New Zealand Rugby (NZR) that will see him return from Japan in mid-2026, making him available for Tasman in the NPC.

Now 32, the Tongan-born forward debuted for the Highlanders in 2018 and earned All Blacks selection later that same year.

Since 2023, Frizell has been a key figure for Toshiba Brave Lupus Tokyo in Japan Rugby League One, helping the side to back-to-back championships in 2024 and 2025. He also represented the ANZAC XV against the touring British & Irish Lions in Australia last year.

A powerful ball carrier with a strong presence at the lineout, Frizell’s return will add experience and physicality to Head Coach Jamie Joseph’s forward pack in 2027.

With the Rugby World Cup in Australia later that year, he will be aiming to force his way back into All Blacks selection.

Joseph welcomed the news, highlighting the value Frizell brings to the squad.

“Shannon returning to the Highlanders is a real bonus for the club, and it’s great to see a seasoned international player prepared to return to Super Rugby to have a crack at making the All Blacks.

"He knows our culture well, he’s a hard-working player, and he’ll fit seamlessly into our team.”

Frizell’s return strengthens a Highlanders squad continuing to build toward a pivotal 2027 season.

Highlanders CEO Roger Clark said the signing adds further momentum to the club’s development.

“Over the last few seasons the club has worked hard at rebuilding and growing the talent pool we believe we need to be competitive in one of the toughest professional leagues in the world.

"The arrival of Shannon will give further impetus to that, and it’s exciting news for our fans to welcome back a player of his calibre.”

NZR Interim Chief Executive Steve Lancaster added:

“We’re really pleased to have Shannon returning to New Zealand and look forward to seeing him back in action in the NPC later this year.

"Any time a player with international experience comes home is a boost to the game here and it’s great to see Shannon’s desire to represent his provincial union, Super Rugby club and country remains as strong as ever.”