Evening Telegraph (First Edition)
Cockerill hails new contract for Watson
HEAD coach Richard Cockerill is delighted that “world-class” Hamish Watson (right) has committed to a new long-term contract with Edinburgh.
The 29-year-old backrow forward has made 116 appearances for the capital club since he joined the academy aged 19 and has won 36 caps for Scotland
Cockerill said: “This is really fantastic news for Edinburgh and a great statement on our plans for this squad for the seasons ahead.
“We’re delighted he’s staying – any coach would be happy to have him – and will continue to bring his relentless approach to rugby every time he takes to the field.
“He’s an incredible, worldclass athlete and rugby player and shows incredible commitment every time he takes to the field for club or country, but he also has a very good rugby brain.
“He’s a very popular and senior member of our player group and it’s great to have him committed to the club for the foreseeable future.”
Watson, who moved north from the Leicester’s academy for a Scotland sevens contract in the summer of 2011, said: “I have been at Edinburgh since I was 19, it really is home for me and my family.
“My two girls were born here and we’re so happy to be spending more of our lives here.
“I feel like we have both showed each other a great deal of loyalty. I love playing for Edinburgh. It means so much to me and, like I said last time round, I can’t see myself in another team’s jersey.
“I feel like the club has been, and is, heading in the right direction to win something over the next few years.
“That is what I believe this group of players is capable of and it would be great to do it for the club and the fans.
“All the players can’t wait to welcome all the fans back after Covid, to our new home.
“I personally can’t wait to see the fans again and continue this journey.”