1
Scotland's Grant Gilchrist extends Edinburgh deal into 15th season
By Josh Raisey
Edinburgh co-captain Grant Gilchrist has signed a one-year contract extension with the club, which will take him into his 15th season in the Scottish capital.
The 34-year-old has spent his entire career with Edinburgh, racking up 214 appearances, and cherishes being a "one-club man".
The lock has also made 80 appearances for Scotland, featuring for his country in every match this season bar the fixture with Portugal in November.
Gilchrist spoke of a "huge finish" for his club this season, with Edinburgh just two points off the United Rugby Championship play-off places and hosting the Lions in the Challenge Cup round of 16 next month.
"Pulling on the Edinburgh jersey for the first time was one of my greatest achievements, and continues to be an honour season on season, so to extend my time here for another year fills me with immense pride," Gilchrist said after signing the deal.
“Being a one-club man is something I cherish deeply. I still feel like I have so much more to give to this club, and the thought of helping lead this team to silverware would be the proudest moment of my career.
“We have a huge finish to the season ahead in both the EPCR Challenge Cup and the URC, and I'm more determined than ever to achieve something special with this group of players and staff. Retirement isn't on my mind; I still feel I have unfinished business here at Edinburgh."
Edinburgh head coach Sean Everitt added: "Grant is the epitome of a one-club man, and his unwavering commitment to Edinburgh Rugby is inspiring.
“He never fails to give his absolute best for his boyhood club, both on and off the field. Grant is a true leader of men, and his desire to achieve something special with Edinburgh is infectious.
“It's brilliant news to retain a player of Grant's calibre, who continues to perform at the very top of his game. His experience and leadership are invaluable to our squad, and we are delighted to have him with us for another season."
Trending on RugbyPass
2
Bath Rugby turnover breaks £20m but losses increase
3
Gloucester Rugby accounts reveal £3 million drop in turnover
4
Exeter Chiefs close to revealing new attack and backs coach
5
Latest Comments
That’s a very flip response FL.
Tom Coughlin won the SB at the age of 76, and NFL does not suffer coaching fools gladly. Gregg Popovich is 75 and has been coaching the San Antonio Spurs since 1988 and he’s won five NBA title in three diff decades. Andy Reid is 67 and won the last two SBs with the Chiefs.
And in regard to Les Kiss’s age, well Nick Nurse got his first crack at the NBA in 2019, promptly winning a championship with the Raptors!
Rugby won’t go down the Soccer road and hire-and-fire like it’s the Wild West. It will find the value in older coaches as time passes. And even the manager of Real Marid is Carlo Ancelotti - aged 65!
Go to commentsThe debate was in the context of the Lions squad. Multiple club and national coaches have chosen him (considerably) more often at 7, so there’s enough people fancy he’s good in the role.
The win rates are vitally important for this Lions tour. ‘01/’05/’09 were losses. ‘17 was a draw and ‘21 was a utter disgrace that stained the game. And a loss. They’ve won one test series in 24 years. And just 12 months ago people were worried about how uncompetitive Australia might be. Talk about added pressure.
Farrell is a straight forward, no nonsense type of guy. He’ll probably pick conservatively and with guys in their proven positions. He hasn’t the time for bolters or shock calls. Not with the touring schedule they have.
You haven’t remotely offended me, chief. Not at all.
Go to comments