Scotland flanker wants ‘silverware’ after deciding his future
Edinburgh's Hamish Watson (centre) on the ball during the EPCR Challenge Cup match at the Hive Stadium, Scotland.
Experienced Scotland international Hamish Watson is eager to win some silverware at Edinburgh after deciding his future beyond this season.
The British and Irish Lions openside flanker has made over 150 appearances for Edinburgh since moving to the Scottish capital from Leicester Tigers’ academy in 2011.
Hamish Watson re-signs with Edinburgh
Now 13 years later, the 32-year-old has signed a contract extension as he sets his sights on winning trophies with the club, saying he wasn’t tempted with a move elsewhere.
“Edinburgh Rugby is my club and Edinburgh is my home – I couldn’t see myself playing anywhere else at this point in my career,” he told the club’s website.
“This is the club where I’ve grown up and I was immensely proud to reach 150 appearances for the team earlier this season.
“Joining guys like Stuart McInally, Mike Blair and Grant Gilchrist with over 150 appearances for the club means a lot to me and I can’t wait to continue pulling on the jersey for at least another season yet.
“As I’ve always said, I want to win silverware for this club. We know we have the squad to do it and a brilliant home and fanbase at Hive Stadium, it’s now just about believing we can take the next steps to lift trophies.”
Watson has been on the fringe of the Scotland squad recently as he missed out on selection for the Six Nations, but has racked up 58 caps for his country and was selected in Warren Gatland’s British and Irish Lions squad for the 2021 tour to South Africa – earning a Test cap in doing so.
‘Wouldn’t have been short of suitors’
Edinburgh head coach Sean Everitt expressed his delight in retaining the services of the fan-favourite back-rower beyond the current season.
“His on-field contribution is there for all to see, he’s a relentless competitor and gives 100 per cent every time he takes to the field for club and country,” Everitt said.
“Playing the way he does takes a huge amount of thankless and unheralded work behind the scenes in training and preparation. He sets an exceptionally high standard for everyone at the club every day.
“He’s the type of player any coach, or any fan, would be delighted to have at their club, and I’m sure wouldn’t have been short of suitors, so we’re delighted he’s staying on at the club.”
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