Hamish Watson extends stay with Edinburgh

Scotland international Hamish Watson has agreed for a new deal with Edinburgh, which will keep him with the Pro 12 club until 2019.

The back-row joined Edinburgh from Leicester Tigers in 2011 and has also represented Scotland Under-20 and sevens teams.

His first appearance for Scotland came in February 2015 during the Six Nations encounter against Italy and has played five Tests so far in which he has managed a solitary try.

The 25-year-old said extending contract with Edinburgh was a straightforward decision.

"I'm absolutely delighted to be staying at Edinburgh, it's a great club with a great squad, coaching team and backroom staff, and I love the city," said back-rower Watson.

"I feel that this club is right for me to continue developing my game, and a place for me to stay and build on my Scotland caps.

"The club is going in the right direction and there's a lot that can be achieved with this squad, and that's something I want to be a part of in the coming seasons."

Meanwhile, interim coach Duncan Hodge believes Watson's contract extension can benefit the club.

"Hamish is an outstanding individual, who gives everything for the team every time he's on the park," said acting head coach Duncan Hodge.

"He has worked extremely hard to develop his game over the last couple of seasons, and his efforts have paid dividends as he continues to perform and improve in an Edinburgh jersey.

"As a coaching team, we are delighted Hamish has committed to the club for a further two seasons."