Edinburgh Rugby has confirmed that long-serving lock Grant Gilchrist has signed a one-year contract extension, ensuring he will continue with his boyhood club for an incredible 15th season.
Gilchrist, who made his professional debut in 2011 against Cardiff Rugby, has been a cornerstone of the team for over a decade. A product of Alloa RFC and Stirling County, he has firmly established himself as one of Edinburgh’s all-time greats, joining an elite group of players to have made over 200 appearances for the club.
Reflecting on his new deal, Gilchrist expressed his pride in continuing his journey with Edinburgh:
“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.”
Gilchrist has been a central figure in Edinburgh’s leadership group, serving as captain or co-captain in six different seasons, including the current campaign alongside Ben Vellacott. His leadership on and off the pitch has been instrumental in shaping the team’s identity.
Last season, he reached a historic milestone by making his 200th appearance for the club in the EPCR Challenge Cup quarter-final against Hollywoodbets Sharks, becoming only the fourth player to do so for Edinburgh. In the wider URC, he joins an exclusive group of locks to have played more than 15 seasons for a single club, alongside Devin Toner (Leinster) and Alun Wyn Jones (Ospreys).
Despite his longevity, the 34-year-old continues to perform at the highest level, featuring in all five of Scotland’s Six Nations matches earlier this year. He also started three Autumn Nations Series Tests in November against Fiji, Australia, and South Africa. At club level, he has played in nine matches this season, starting every game and adding two tries to his tally—the first time he has crossed the whitewash since the 2017/18 campaign.
Edinburgh Rugby Head Coach Sean Everitt praised Gilchrist’s impact and dedication to the club:
“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.”
With his future secured for another year, Gilchrist will now turn his focus to helping Edinburgh finish the season strongly in both the EPCR Challenge Cup and the URC.
