Scotland star Pierre Schoeman signs new deal with Edinburgh

Scotland rugby star Pierre Schoeman has committed his long term future to Edinburgh after signing a new contract.

While the length of the extended deal has not been revealed, Schoeman said he had made Scotland his home since moving from his native South Africa in 2018.

The 28-year-old has picked up nine Scotland caps since qualifying to wear the thistle last year.

Schoeman said: “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.

“The one thing I’ve absolutely loved is building that relationship with the fans.

“Their love is unconditional and the passion they bring to games is unbelievable – from young lads to families, they always give you that energy you need.”

Edinburgh head coach Mike Blair believes Schoeman is one of the best in his position in world rugby and was delighted to keep him in Scottish rugby.

Blair said: “It is 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 loosehead props 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.”