Gilchrist named co-captain for 2023/24

• 27 Oct 2023
• News

Edinburgh Rugby today appointed centurion and Scotland international lock Grant Gilchrist as co-captain for the 2023/24 season.

Gilchrist will share the role with scrum-half Ben Vellacott – named co-captain last month – with the duo set to lead the team together for the first time tomorrow evening, as Edinburgh Rugby face Emirates Lions at Hive Stadium (Saturday 28 October, kick-off 5pm).

Gilchrist – who linked up with capital squad earlier this week following the conclusion of the Rugby World Cup – is one of Edinburgh Rugby’s most experienced players, having already co-captained the club in four separate seasons (16/17, 20/21, 21/22, 22/23), with the upcoming 2023/24 campaign his fifth in a leadership role, after coming through the ranks at Alloa Rugby Club and Stirling County.

With 188 appearances for his boyhood team, the one-club man is now preparing for his 13^th season in the Scottish capital – a campaign that started with a hard-fought road win against Dragons RFC last weekend.

Gilchrist said: “It’s such a huge honour to be named co-captain for the season ahead alongside Ben.

“It’s no secret how much this club and everyone associated with it means to me, having been a massive part of my life for so long.

“We have a brilliant squad of players, coaches and off-field staff who are all desperate to bring success to the club and make our supporters proud.

“I can’t wait to get back on the pitch with the boys at Hive Stadium on Saturday night!”

Edinburgh Rugby Senior Coach Sean Everitt, added:

“After meeting Grant [Gilchrist] and spending time with him this week, it was clear that he cares deeply for the club and is hugely passionate in driving this team forward. Appointing him co-captain was an easy decision.

“He is a quality operator and bosses our set-piece, while he commands respect across the dressing room because of the way he carries himself. He’s a true professional with natural leadership skills.

“I’ve got no doubt that Grant and Ben [Vellacott] will do a fantastic job of leading this group of players this season. We’re excited for the challenge ahead of us, and it continues with Emirates Lions tomorrow evening.”