England international returns to Canterbury

Willi Heinz will again pull on the red and black of Canterbury, with the experienced halfback retuning for this year’s Bunnings NPC for the first time in seven years. 

The Linwood export headed to Gloucester in the UK’s Premiership following Canterbury’s successful 2015 NPC campaign, before picking up 13 caps for England, including during the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

 The 33-year-old then spent one season with Worcester, before returning to Christchurch and playing club rugby for his beloved Linwood Bulls.

“I loved my time in England and my family and I gained some incredible friends, had wonderful experiences, and feel truly fortunate to have had the opportunity to experience UK life. It is awesome being back in Christchurch and seeing the remarkable transformation the city has gone through. There’s nothing quite like Canterbury; It’s where I grew up, where my family is, and to get the opportunity to play again for Canterbury is quite surreal really.”

The Burnside High School Old Boy says he’s a different player to when he last played in Canterbury and is looking at bringing some of that knowledge to the squad.

“It’s a real privilege to play for Canterbury you get to play in front of your friends and family and the style of rugby is really enjoyable. I’ve always felt so passionate about this team and feel as determined as ever to contribute to a successful season. The Bunnings NPC is fast and fun, so it’s about enjoying our rugby but understanding the opportunity we have as a group to deliver something special for our people and inspire the next generation of young Cantabrian.”