Trio of bright prospects sign up at Murrayfield

Scottish prospects Callum Hunter-hill, Hugh Fraser and Tom Galbraith have graduated from the BT Sport Scottish Rugby Academy to professional deals with Edinburgh.

All three featured for London Scottish throughout the 2016-17 season, while Fraser and Galbraith have been training with the capital club on a full-time basis since ending their time in Richmond.

Hunter-hill has signed a two-year deal with Edinburgh, while the two backs will be part of the club’s setup until at least May 2018.

Hunter-hill made his Scotland U20 debut in the istoric win over England in the 2016 Six Nations and has since made 14 appearances – five as captain – for the age-grade side.

He said: “I’ve no doubt it’s going to be a huge step up into such a professional environment but I’m looking forward to the challenge and getting started with Edinburgh.

“There are some established players in the second-row at the club and it’s exciting to be able to learn from these guys and feed off their knowledge.”

Scrum-half Fraser was a regular starter in Scotland U20’s historic season in 2016, and was named as scrum-half in the World Rugby U20 Championship dream team.

He said: “I’m really looking forward to finally stepping up and being with the side on a full-time basis.”

Galbraith – who is comfortable at stand-off, centre and full-back – was in the same senior age-grade side as Fraser. He also played for Kelso Quins, before making the switch to Melrose, to compete in the BT Premiership.

He said: “It’s great to have progressed through the Academy and be recognised with a pro-contract at the end. I’ve enjoyed the training environment already. It’s given me a chance to get to know the other boys and get into the swing of things before going into pre-season.”

Edinburgh’s acting head coach, Duncan Hodge, said: “All three players are quality athletes and welcome additions to the squad.”