Tighthead prop Williams pens capital extension

The Kiwi-born forward, 29 – who qualifies for Scotland through his Edinburgh-born mother – extended terms with the capital club having signed his first professional deal last season.

Williams – who is currently rehabbing a knee injury – had previously been on a partnership contract with FOSROC Super6 side Watsonians and has impressed since making his Edinburgh debut against Connacht in March 2021.

On penning a new deal, Williams said: “I’m really excited to sign a new deal with the club. We’ve got a great group of players here who all love representing this city.

“It’s been awesome to pick up a bit more game time this year and I feel like I’m improving every week. The tightheads at the club all push each other on in training and you can only get better when going up against guys like Pierre Schoeman.

“It was obviously disappointing to pick up a knee injury in training last month but rehab is going great and I’m progressing well. I can’t wait to pull the jersey back on soon and help the team finish the season strong.”

Williams has been a consistent performer in 22/23, making eight appearances overall, three of which were starts up front.

The tighthead started in bonus-point wins against Dragons RFC and Zebre Parma and made his Heineken Champions Cup debut in the home victory against Castres Olympique.

Head Coach Mike Blair added: “We’re delighted to see Gus re-sign. He’s a really popular member of the squad because of his attitude and commitment. He turns up every day with a quiet and humble determination to get better and that has really shown in his performances this season.

“Gus loves playing for the club and he takes great pride in pulling on the Edinburgh jersey. We’re looking forward to seeing him back out there soon as he works back from injury.”