Holland out until August with shoulder injury

In a major blow to the Highlanders ahead of the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, standout lock Fabian Holland has been confirmed out of action until at least August due to a serious shoulder injury.

Holland, who has quickly become one of New Zealand rugby’s most promising forwards, suffered a dislocated shoulder during a preseason clash with Moana Pasifika in Queenstown. The injury occurred shortly after he came off the bench, forcing him from the field early and necessitating surgery scheduled for next week.

The timing of the injury means Holland will miss the entire Super Rugby Pacific campaign and is also likely to sit out New Zealand’s July Test fixtures. However, the Highlanders’ medical team expects him to be fit in time for the All Blacks’ tour of South Africa in August.

Holland’s absence leaves a big gap in the Highlanders’ second‑row resources. With fellow lock Dylan Pledger already sidelined for the season due to a knee injury, the club will rely on alternatives such as Mitch Dunshea, Tomás Lavanini, and versatile forwards Oliver Haig and TK Howden to cover the engine room in 2026.

The 23‑year‑old has enjoyed a rapid rise through the rugby ranks, earning accolades for his performances with both the Highlanders and the All Blacks, including being named World Rugby’s Breakthrough Player of the Year.