Jermaine Ainsley is an experienced tighthead prop returning to the Highlanders for the 2027 Super Rugby Pacific season. Highlander #311, Ainsley previously made 38 appearances for the club between 2022 and 2024. 

A local boy who was born in Clyde, Ainsley came through Otago Boys’ High School before beginning his professional career in Australia. He made 17 appearances for the Western Force and 43 for the Melbourne Rebels, with his form earning him three Test caps for the Wallabies in 2018. 

Ainsley returned to New Zealand in 2022, representing the Highlanders, Otago and the Māori All Blacks before earning selection for the All Blacks XV in 2023. He then moved to France, making 30 appearances for Lyon in the TOP 14 between 2024 and 2026. 

A powerful and technically strong scrummager with a high work rate around the field, Ainsley returns to Dunedin with extensive Super Rugby and international experience. His familiarity with the Highlanders environment and proven ability at tight head will add experience and depth to the forward pack in 2027.