Highlanders sign Crusaders duo

Cape Town - The Highlanders have lured Mitchell Hunt and Ngane Punivai from the Crusaders as part of a quartet of backline signings that also includes Otago wing Jona Nareki, 21, and Wellington utility back Connor Garden-Bachop, 20.

Highlanders head coach Aaron Mauger told the Stuff website's Paul Cully that Hunt will compete with Josh Ioane for the No 10 jersey but will also be in the running to occupy the fullback spot vacated by France-bound Ben Smith as the Highlanders weigh up an All Blacks-style "dual playmaker" system.

Punivai's signature represents something of a coup as the 20-year-old has been touted as a potential All Black.

Punivai made his Crusaders debut against the Lions this season and will give the Highlanders the size they have looking for in the outside backs.

The Highlanders also announced the signing of 20-year-old Northland outside back Scott Gregory two weeks ago, although Gregory will only be available for the start of the Highlanders' 2020 Super Rugby campaign before he switches into Sevens mode and targets the Olympics with the NZ Sevens side.