Young blood for 'old' Highlanders

The Highlanders have signed two 'young guns' from the domestic competition.

Manawatu centre Jason Emery and Otago front row forward Liam Coltman, have both signed three-year contracts with the southern franchise.

This follows recent signing of veteran Tony Woodcock (from the Blues) and reports that they are chasing 38-year-old All Black Brad Thorn.

Coltman, who turns 23 in January, has played 22 NPC matches for Otago over the past three seasons. He was in the Highlanders' wider training group in 2012 and was also a key member of the New Zealand Under-20 team that won the world title in 2010.

"Liam's form has been impressive in the NPC this season," said Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph.

"We have selected him as a hooker for the Highlanders, but his athletic ability is obvious when he has been playing tighthead prop in the Otago team this season,” Joseph added.

Emery is playing in his first NPC season for Manawatu and has been impressive in the Turbo's midfield since making his debut earlier this season. He was part of the New Zealand Under-20 Team that played in World Championship in South Africa earlier this year.

"Jason is a young and talented player and he has a great understanding of the game for a 19 year old. I know he will be a good fit in the Highlanders squad,” added Joseph.

Highlanders General Manager Roger Clark said both players are stars of the future and important signings for the franchise.

"Both Liam and Jason have been selected with the future in mind. We are building a squad that has depth across the park, and with both players at the start of their professional careers, we know that they can offer a lot to the team over the coming seasons,” commented Clark.

Coltman and Emery are currently playing in the final rounds of the NPC competition and they will join the Highlanders for their pre-season training in December.