McKnight pens permanent academy deal in capital

Stirling County winger Ross McKnight has joined the Edinburgh Rugby Academy on a one-year deal following a successful trial period with the club.

McKnight, 23, joins the club having caught the eye with a dazzling performance for Edinburgh in last season’s friendly against Saracens at Hive Stadium.

Against a team packed with seasoned Gallagher Premiership and international stars, McKnight bagged a hat-trick of tries, including a special score having latched onto the end of a Cammy Scott crossfield kick.

On the move, McKnight said: “I’m buzzing to be joining Edinburgh Rugby full time. I really enjoyed my time in the environment at the back end of last season, and I can’t wait to get going again in a professional rugby environment.”

The giant winger previously had spells in the Glasgow Warriors Academy and with Stirling Wolves in the FOSROC Super Series and marks his return to the professional ranks after impressing on trial following his try scoring exploits.

McKnight most recently enjoyed the taste of success at Howden Melrose Sevens, where he played an instrumental role in helping Shogun Rugby claim their second tournament win in as many years.

The Stirling man has followed a similar path to Lewis Wells – who made his senior debut for Edinburgh last season – in making the jump from club rugby to the full-time environment.

Head Coach Sean Everitt added: “We’re really excited for what Ross can bring to our squad. He impressed in the game against Saracens and trained well with the senior team when he joined us on trial.

“Ross shows that there is a lot of talent in the Scottish grassroots system, and there’s a chance for guys to break into professional rugby from those Premiership and National league sides.”