Watson to continue for 15th season in the capital 

• 1 May 2025
• News

Edinburgh Rugby is thrilled to announce club centurion, Scotland international and British & Irish Lion back-row Hamish Watson will continue at the club for a further season, his 15th in the Scottish capital.

A stalwart for Edinburgh Rugby throughout his professional career, the talismanic 33-year-old openside, who remains a dedicated one-club man, has featured in 16 matches this season, starting on 11 occasions, underlining his reliable presence in the team.

Watson, who has earned 59 caps for Scotland and represented the British & Irish Lions in 2021, is now gearing up for Edinburgh’s highly anticipated EPCR Challenge Cup Semi-Final against Bath this Saturday

Watson said: “I’m incredibly proud to be continuing my journey with Edinburgh Rugby for another season. Pulling on this jersey and representing the club where I’ve spent my entire professional career still means so much to me. It’s a special feeling every single time.

“We’re absolutely buzzing for Saturday’s European Semi-Final – it’s hard to believe it’s been ten years since the club’s last one. It would be an amazing feeling to achieve something special with this club.”

Watson made his Edinburgh debut against Cardiff Blues in 2011 and established himself firmly in the starting XV by 2014. Since then, his dynamic ball carrying and relentless work rate have made him a firm favourite with supporters at both club level and the international stage.

He reached his 100th Edinburgh appearance in an 1872 Cup clash against Glasgow Warriors in April 2019, and further cemented his legendary status by becoming the first back-row in the club’s 152-year history to reach 150 appearances against Zebre Parma in 2024 – a milestone achieved by only ten other Edinburgh players.

Looking ahead, Watson is eager to contribute not only through his performances on the pitch but also by mentoring the club’s emerging talent.

“My first focus will always be playing my best and helping the team win games,” added Watson. “But I also recognise I have a role to play in helping the next generation of back-rows here at Edinburgh take their steps.

Edinburgh Rugby Head Coach Sean Everitt praised Watson’s ongoing impact.

He said: “Hamish continues to be an outstanding player for Edinburgh Rugby. His performances this season have been testament to his dedication – he is the ultimate professional that young players should aspire to be.

“His commitment to the club and his desire to help develop the next generation of ‘Hamish Watsons’ is invaluable. We are delighted he will be with us for another season.”