Edinburgh to pay tribute to Doddie Weir at Munster clash

Mike Blair is hoping Edinburgh can produce a fitting tribute to Doddie Weir when they host Munster on Friday.

The United Rugby Championship showdown at DAM Health Stadium will be the first professional match in Scotland since the legendary former Scotland international lost his battle against motor neurone disease last weekend, aged 52.

Supporters have been encouraged to wear tartan garments – particularly those of the My Name’5 Doddie Foundation – and a moment’s applause will be held in Weir’s memory before kick-off.

“This week has been really tough for all connected to Scottish rugby,” said Edinburgh head coach Blair.

“Doddie was such a huge figure and the enormity of what he managed to achieve to raise both awareness and money in the fight against MND is immeasurable.

“The thoughts of all of us at Edinburgh Rugby go out to his family, friends and former team-mates.

“As a squad, we’ve spoken a lot about Doddie this week and what he stood for. It’s brilliant we’re able to pay tribute to a real icon of Scottish rugby tomorrow night and it will be an emotional moment as we celebrate his life pre-match.”

Scotland internationals Jamie Ritchie, Grant Gilchrist, Pierre Schoeman, Blair Kinghorn, Darcy Graham, Mark Bennett and Duhan van der Merwe all return to Edinburgh’s starting XV for the visit of Munster after being rested for last weekend’s defeat at Benetton following their autumn series exploits with the national team.

“We’re delighted to welcome back a number of our internationalists for what is a really tough match-up, with one of the league’s most competitive sides,” said Blair.

“Munster are a quality outfit, but we’re up for the challenge and excited to be back at DAM Health Stadium in front of our home support, who will no doubt play their part in creating an electric atmosphere.”