Title-winning Hurricanes coach signs with English rugby club

Wednesday, 24 June 2026

Assistant coach Brad Cooper is leaving the Hurricanes after helping deliver the club’s first Super Rugby Pacific title in a decade.

Hurricanes assistant coach Brad Cooper is heading to England after signing with Premiership club Harlequins.

The Hurricanes confirmed Cooper will depart the club after two seasons in Wellington, having played a key role in helping guide the side to its first Super Rugby Pacific title in 10 years.

Cooper joined the Hurricanes from the New Zealand Under-20 programme and quickly became a valued member of the coaching team.

Before moving into the national age-group setup, he built an extensive coaching résumé in Taranaki Rugby, working across the province’s NPC, development, sevens and Under-16 programmes, while also serving as an assistant coach with New Plymouth Boys’ High School’s First XV.

Reflecting on his departure, Cooper said his time with the Hurricanes had been one of the most rewarding chapters of his coaching career.

“I’ve absolutely loved my time at the Hurricanes. It’s been a hugely rewarding part of my coaching journey, and I’ve learnt so much both professionally and personally,” Cooper said.

Coach Clark Laidlaw and Jordie Barrett paid tribute to Ruben Love's development after his sensational individual performance in their huge win to clinch the Super Rugby Pacific title.

“The opportunity to work with such talented players and staff has helped me grow enormously as a coach, and I’m incredibly grateful for the support, trust, and friendships I’ve built along the way.”

Cooper said the people at the Hurricanes had made the experience particularly memorable.

“What makes this place special is the people. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside some outstanding individuals who have challenged me, inspired me, and made every day enjoyable.”

Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw praised Cooper’s contribution since arriving at the club in July 2024.

“We’ve really enjoyed Coops’ growth over the past two years,” Laidlaw said.

“His work and dedication for the team, the players and the attacking side of the game is there for everybody to see.

“He’s always trying to make players better, which will be missed, but we wish him, Karina, and the family all the best at Harlequins as he tests himself in a different competition.”

Cooper leaves the Hurricanes with a championship title on his résumé and will now take the next step in his coaching career in one of the world’s leading domestic rugby competitions.