Baber to leave Edinburgh Rugby

Baber – who led Fiji Sevens to Gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics – joined the club in December 2021, having enjoyed a successful five-year period with the South Pacific Islanders.

Baber will now return to Wales where his family have been located throughout his time in the Scottish capital.

He said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time in Edinburgh and I’ve built connections with coaches, management and players that will last a lifetime. It’s a brilliant club and I’m certain this group will bounce back next season.

“I have, however, spent the last 18 months away from my family who are living in Wales, so it felt like the right time to relocate home and bring an end to my time in Edinburgh. It’s been a truly brilliant experience and I can’t talk up the club enough.

“I’m hugely thankful to Edinburgh for giving me an opportunity back in the 15-a-side game, while working with Mike [Blair], Stevie [Lawrie] and Michael [Todd] has been massive in terms of my own coaching career – the lessons I’ve learned and the experiences we’ve gone through together.

“I’d like to thank the Edinburgh fans for making me feel welcome throughout my duration at the club. I’ll remain a fan as I continue my own journey back home in Wales.”

Edinburgh Rugby Managing Director, Douglas Struth, added: “Gareth [Baber] has been brilliant to work with, while his knowledge and expertise have been invaluable resources for our coaching team during the last 18 months.

“His contribution, on and off the field, has been first class – not only as a coach, but as somebody who cares about culture and people.

“Everyone at the club wishes Gareth the very best as he heads back home to Wales to be with his family. We can’t thank him enough for his hard work and dedication during his time at Edinburgh and he’ll no doubt be a success in his next role.”