James Arscott, Otago Boys High School First XV alumn, (following a  transfer from Roncalli College, Timaru in 2017) was signed to the Otago Rugby Union on a development contract. In 2018 after making the NZ Barbarians School side he joined Sean Withy as one of the first inductees of the Highlander’s High Performance Programme.

Arscott graduated from the High Performance Programme in 2021 and debuted for the Highlanders that same year against the Waratahs in Dunedin after being called in as an injury replacement. In 2023 he joined the Highlanders squad officially and made his first start in April that year and has since made 17 appearances for the Club.  

Arscott is an exceptionally fit athlete who possesses a crisp pass and solid kicking game that suits playing under the roof at home at Forsyth Barr Stadium. 

What is the best thing about playing rugby? 

Going to work everyday with your mates then competing to win again every weekend.

Who is your favourite rugby player? 

Aaron Smith 

What does representing the Highlanders mean to you? 

Dream come true, love the region and people of the Highlanders.