Warriors pair pen extended contracts as Edinburgh snap up U20s winger

Glasgow Warriors props D’arcy Rae and Jamie Bhatti have signed extended contracts.

Both former Scotland Under-20 internationals, Rae has signed until May 2019, while Bhatti has penned a one-year professional deal.

Tighthead prop Rae, 22, has now played 19 times for Warriors as well as getting experience on loan with London Scottish and Benetton Treviso.

Rae said: “Glasgow is my home club and all my family are here and I’m enjoying it.

“I’ve been working towards trying to get in the team as much as I can and getting more game-time this season made my decision easier.

“When I was younger I played on the pitch at half-time and now I’m playing in the team which is surreal.

“I want to play well for my club and if I got the opportunity to play for Scotland one day that would be a bonus.”

Stirling-born loosehead Bhatti has spent most of the season playing for BT Premiership leaders Melrose, but the 23-year-old has made three appearances for Warriors.

“It has always been a dream of mine to be a professional rugby player, so I’m really happy to have signed a contract with Glasgow,” he said.

“It’s an honour to play for such a successful club and I’m looking forward to continuing my development at Scotstoun.”

Edinburgh meanwhile have signed Scotland Under-20 winger Darcy Graham on a two-year contract.

The 19-year-old BT Sport Scottish Rugby Academy graduate – who is a regular in the BT Premiership with hometown club Hawick – will join the Guinness PRO12 outfit ahead of next season.

Graham, who scored a memorable try in a victory over Australia at last year’s World Rugby U20 Championship, said: “I know a few of the boys from playing with them at U20 level and that helped in making my decision. They speak highly of the club and it seems like there’s a good buzz around the current group.”

Acting head coach Duncan Hodge added: “Darcy is one of the most exciting prospects in Scottish rugby and we’re delighted to have him join the club. We’re sure he’ll thrive in a fullyprofessional environment.”