Capital gain for Edinburgh as ‘outstanding’ Hardie signs new one-year deal
Scotland international John Hardie has re-signed with Edinburgh on a one-year deal.
The back-row joined the capital club following the national team’s World Cup campaign in 2015 and has since gone on to make 19 appearances.
On penning a new deal, he said: “I’m looking forward to another year at Edinburgh. The club has been great to me since I arrived a few years ago, and I’ve loved every minute playing alongside the boys.
“It’s been a disappointing season for us all, but we’ve got a good squad and the potential to really kick on next season. There’s a good mix of youth and experience and we should really benefit from that going forward.”
New Zealand-born Hardie, 28, moved to Edinburgh from Super Rugby side Highlanders and made his debut in the European Cup victory over Grenoble at BT Murrayfield on 13 November 2015, before scoring his first try for the club the following week in the away win over Agen.
He debuted for Scotland against Italy in Turin in August 2015 and was subsequently named in the squad for the World Cup, where he scored his side’s first try of the tournament in the 45-10 defeat of Japan.
Hardie has since been capped by Scotland on 15 occasions.
Edinburgh’s acting head coach Duncan Hodge said: “It’s great news for the club and Scottish rugby that John has committed to Edinburgh for another year.
“He’s an outstanding openside and gives everything for the shirt every time he takes to the field.
“It’s a real boost to the squad to add further depth to a highly-competitive back-row ahead of next season, and we’re looking forward to seeing the players thrive in that environment next year.”