Scotland's Saffa project prop commits to long-term contract with Edinburgh

Edinburgh and Scotland prop Pierre Schoeman has pledged his “long-term future” to the club. The 28-year-old has made 81 appearances since joining Edinburgh in 2018 and won nine Scotland caps.

After signing his new contract, South African-born Schoeman said: “I’m extremely excited about the new deal with Edinburgh and staying in Scotland. My wife and I have bought a house here in the city and we love spending time together in this beautiful country.

“We love it here. We love the fans, the club, the history and tradition of Scotland and the culture at Edinburgh Rugby. My wife and I have really made Scotland our home.

“Staying here comes with huge privilege but also huge responsibility to give my best every day, every month, every year.”

Head coach Mike Blair added: “We’re absolutely delighted to re-sign Pierre – it’s huge for the club and massive for what we continue to build here at Edinburgh.

“We regard Pierre as one of world rugby’s premier looseheads and I think that’s been more evident than ever in his performances this season.

“His work rate and ability in the loose are key to the way we play and he’s a real game-changer in the sense he can flip momentum with a brilliant piece of play or physicality.

“We love Pierre here and what’s great is that he’s really made Edinburgh his home.

“He’s embraced Scottish culture from the get-go and that’s showcased in the way he interacts with fans – they see him as one of their own because of the way he plays for the jersey.

“Pierre comes into training every day with a great attitude and adds to the culture of the club too, in terms of the standards he sets professionally but also in the way he interacts with new players and younger guys too.

“He makes them feel welcome and part of the team from day one, and I’m really looking forward to seeing what Pierre produces in an Edinburgh jersey in the years ahead.”