Hislop makes capital return

• 13 Feb 2023
• News

Loosehead prop Robin Hislop will return to the Scottish capital this summer, joining from Saracens on a two-year deal.

Hislop, 30, started his career at Edinburgh Rugby, making his debut against Cardiff Rugby in 2011 – becoming Edinburgh player #1147 – and featured 20 times before leaving for Rotherham Titans in 2014.]

The former Langholm Academy man continued his career at Doncaster Knights before he joined Premiership side Wasps in 2021/22, making 23 appearances in an impressive debut season at the Coventry club.

After Wasps entered administration, the former Scotland U20 international made the move to Premiership rivals Saracens for the current campaign, and started in last month’s Heineken Champions Cup clash at DAM Health Stadium.

On returning to the capital, Hislop said: “I’m delighted. My family and I are really excited to be moving back to Edinburgh. The club has a brilliant squad, plays great rugby and is hungry for success.

“It’s obviously a really nice touch to know a lot of the lads from my previous spell at the club. Edinburgh is the best place for my rugby to improve and push on. It’s also a really great fit for my family.”

Hislop was a mainstay at age-grade level where he featured 18 times for Scotland U20 from 2010 to 2012.

The prop was then rewarded for his form at club level at Wasps with a call up to Scotland’s summer tour squad in 2021 however, with all fixtures eventually cancelled due to Covid-19, Hislop was unable to earn international honours.

He continued: “I think when I left Edinburgh, I was pretty young and a bit impatient. I would definitely say I’m a lot more experienced and would say my game has improved all round, especially at set piece. I’m probably a more rounded player.

“I absolutely loved played at DAM Health Stadium last month for Saracens. It was a class experience.

“It was obviously a disappointing night for us with the end result, but running out with the pipes playing, in front of a packed crowd – it was rocking. I can’t wait to be on the home side of that.”

Head Coach Mike Blair added: “We’re delighted to see Robin return to the capital. He brings a tough edge and plenty of experience to the loosehead position.

“We’ve been really impressed with his performances in the English Premiership. He’s a guy that brings a real energy every time he plays, while his history with the club means he’ll be a brilliant fit culturally.”