'I have unfinished business at Edinburgh': Grant Gilchrist signs new deal

Grant Gilchrist spoke about “unfinished business” at Edinburgh after signing a one-year contract extension which sees him remain at his boyhood club for a 15th season.

The 34-year-old Scotland lock made his professional debut against Cardiff Rugby in 2011 and remains a key player.

Gilchrist, again appointed as co-captain at the start of the current season alongside Ben Vellacott, is delighted to extend his time at the club.

He said: “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.

“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 a winning moment 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,” he told the club’s website.

Last season, Gilchrist reached a significant milestone, making his 200th appearance for Edinburgh against Sharks in the EPCR Challenge Cup quarter-final.

He became only the fourth player in the club’s history to achieve this feat, joining club legends Allan Jacobsen, Chris Paterson and WP Nel.

Gilchrist featured in all five of Scotland’s Guinness Six Nations fixtures earlier this year and started three of the Autumn Nations Series Tests in November against Fiji, Australia and South Africa.

Edinburgh head coach Sean Everitt said: “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.”