Lock Hodgson signs two-year extension

Hodgson, 26, has featured in eight games this season, having spent a period on the sidelines recovering from an ankle injury earlier this year.

The Livingston-born lock has started in three key BKT United Rugby Championship victories this campaign – Dragons [A], Ulster [A] and Scarlets at Hive Stadium – as well as last month’s EPCR Challenge Cup Round of 16 win over Bayonne at Scottish Gas Murrayfield.

On extending terms, Hodgson said: “I’m thrilled to extend terms with my hometown team. I love the direction we’re moving in as club and it’s a real honour to represent the city and our fans every time I run out at Hive Stadium.

“Edinburgh is my home, and Edinburgh Rugby is my club. The passion of the supporters here is amazing, and it gives you that extra push on the pitch every week.

“I’m determined to repay their faith and wear this jersey with pride for the next two years. We’ve got a talented squad and a quality coaching team, and I truly believe we can achieve something special together.

“With three crucial games coming up, the support of the Edinburgh fans will be massive as we push for the play-offs. Hopefully I can play my part in what could be a really exciting end to the season.”

A product of Stewart’s Melville College – where he captained the school’s first XV –Hodgson came through the club’s pro-academy to make his professional debut against Zebre Parma in October 2018, becoming Edinburgh player #1253.

The lock featured for Watsonians in the FOSROC Super Series while on a partnership contract and has represented Scotland at U18 and U20 levels.

Impressive club form led to Hodgson earning his first Scotland call-up in 2021, when he made his international debut against Tonga at Scottish Gas Murrayfield during that year’s Autumn Nations Series – the first of five caps earned so far.

Hodgson made his 50^th Edinburgh Rugby appearance against Hollywoodbets Sharks in January last year, with his latest and 61^st appearance coming in the recent bonus-point victory over Scarlets at Hive Stadium.

Head Coach Sean Everitt added: “Jamie [Hodgson] is an important player for us, so naturally we’re delighted to see him agree to a new deal.

“He is someone that takes a huge amount of pride in representing his hometown team and you can see that every time he takes to the field.

“Wearing the castle on his chest means a lot to Jamie and we’ve seen that in his performances so far this campaign, where he’s been one of our most committed players.

“He’s worked really hard to come back from injury and will be a big player for us in the years to come.”

Jamie Hodgson was pictured at a photocall with Breadalbane who earlier today announced their extended support of Edinburgh Rugby by penning a new two-year on-kit partnership extension.