Edinburgh Rugby announces squad overhaul with nine departures including captain Watson

Edinburgh Rugby has confirmed that nine members of the current squad will depart the club at the end of the season, marking a significant transition for the franchise. The announcement includes the exit of captain Hamish Watson and scrum-half Charlie Shiel, alongside forwards and utility players James Lang, Ben Healy, Sam Skinner, Angus Williams, Ross McCann, Mikey Jones, and Boan Venter.

Head coach Sean Everitt issued a statement acknowledging the contributions of the departing group, specifically highlighting Watson as an "all-time Edinburgh legend." Everitt noted that Watson, who has made 181 appearances for the club, is one of the finest players to represent the team. The coach expressed gratitude for the squad's commitment and passion, wishing the players well in the next stage of their careers.

Watson is currently on a short-term loan at Leicester Tigers and is expected to return to full fitness to challenge for silverware with the English club. Meanwhile, Boan Venter had previously confirmed his exit, with reports indicating he is bound for the British and Irish Lions squad. The specific destinations for the remaining departing players, including Lang, Healy, Skinner, Williams, McCann, and Jones, were not detailed in the club's announcement.

The departures coincide with the conclusion of the United Rugby Championship (URC) season. Edinburgh’s final fixture is scheduled for Friday against the Dragons. Both Watson and Shiel, who has made 93 appearances for Edinburgh, could make farewell appearances off the bench in the match, although their availability remains subject to confirmation.

The club’s decision to part ways with such a significant portion of the squad, including its captain, signals a major restructuring ahead of the next campaign. Everitt’s public endorsement of Watson underscores the high regard in which the departing players are held, even as the club moves forward with a new roster configuration.