‘I look forward to calling it home’ – Scotland prop signs two-year deal 

Hepburn arrives at Hive Stadium as one of the most experienced loosehead props in the URC.

He spent a decade at Exeter Chiefs – where he made 179 appearances and was part of the squad that achieved a historic Premiership and Champions Cup double in 2020 – before joining Scarlets ahead of the 2024/25 season, where he has since made 35 appearances in West Wales.

Born in Perth, Australia, Hepburn was a member of the England U20 squad that won the 2012 Six Nations before starting the following year’s Junior World Cup Final as England defeated Wales to become U20 World Champions for the first time.

He went on to earn six senior England caps in 2018, featuring in that year’s Six Nations and autumn internationals against South Africa, New Zealand, Japan and Australia.

In January 2024, Hepburn became eligible for Scotland, qualifying through his father, and made his debut off the bench in the dramatic 27-26 Six Nations victory over Wales in Cardiff.

He has since featured on the 2025 Pacific Tour, appearing against the Māori All Blacks, Fiji and Samoa, and heads to Edinburgh with five Scotland caps to his name.

Known for his power at scrum time and dynamic carrying ability, Hepburn adds proven international pedigree and top-level European experience to Edinburgh’s front-row resources.

Head Coach Sean Everitt said: “We’re really pleased to be adding a player of Alec’s calibre to our squad.

“He’s a seasoned international loosehead who has operated at the highest level throughout his career – Champions Cup finals, Premiership titles, Six Nations. That kind of experience and knowledge is invaluable in any group.

“Alec strengthens the depth we have in an important position and adds genuine competition for places, which can only drive standards higher.

“Having someone of his background in our changing room will also be hugely beneficial for the younger props coming through. That blend of quality and leadership is exactly what we’re looking for as we continue to build.”

Speaking on his move to the capital, Hepburn said: “I’m very excited to be joining Edinburgh. It’s a club with great depth and talent within the squad to push very high in all competitions.

“It’s nice to know a few of the guys already. Getting the chance to work week in and week out with them will hopefully bring the best out of me and prove myself in a different environment.”

He continued: “I have enjoyed Edinburgh every time I’ve been there and look forward to calling it home for the foreseeable future.

“Pre-season will roll around fast and I’m looking forward to the challenge it brings and putting my best foot forward.”