One cap ex-Scotland and Wasps halfback Ben Vellacott decides future

Edinburgh halfback Ben Vellacott has signed a new two-year deal that will keep him at the club until at least 2027.

The 29-year-old scrum-half, who initially joined from Wasps in 2021, is now in his fourth season with the Scottish capital side and has firmly established himself both on and off the field.

Vellacott was appointed co-captain alongside Grant Gilchrist ahead of the 2023/24 season and has retained it into the current campaign.

Vellacott said: “Edinburgh is home for me and my family now, and I’m absolutely delighted to be extending my stay.

“I love this club and this city, as well as the supporters who I feel like I’ve really connected with since moving north.

“With my experience, I feel like I’m in a position now to help bring on the younger scrum-halves at the club, and really contribute to the team’s growth in the future.

“We have unfinished business here, and I’m desperate to help lead this club to silverware. It’s set to be a really exciting end to the season and I can’t wait to play my part.”

The scrum-half has made 10 appearances so far this season, scoring a try against Ospreys in October and starting in last month’s bonus-point win over Munster at Irish Independent Park.

He marked his 50th Edinburgh appearance in last season’s EPCR Challenge Cup victory over Scarlets, with the recent fixture in Cork his 71st outing for the club.

Head Coach Sean Everitt welcomed Vellacott’s decision to extend his contract, highlighting his value within the squad.

“Ben [Vellacott] is a vital part of the fabric of this club and is respected throughout the changing room.

“He’s a consummate professional, and even when injured or not in the starting line-up, he remains an important member of the team culturally, bringing his energy to every session and match.

“His experience and leadership will be invaluable as we continue to build and develop the squad moving forward.”

Vellacott joins a growing list of key players to commit their futures to Edinburgh this season, following contract extensions for Scotland internationals Pierre Schoeman, Duhan van der Merwe, Ben Muncaster, D'arcy Rae, Matt Currie, and Freddy Douglas.