The departure of seven senior members of the Edinburgh Rugby men’s team at the conclusion of the current season has been officially announced. This confirmation follows Scott Steele’s retirement at the age of 30 due to a hip injury that kept him sidelined for the entire 2023/24 campaign. Steele’s decision to retire comes after previous departures, including Viliame Mata’s transfer to Bristol.
The departing players are WP Nel, Viliame Mata, Charlie Savala, Luan de Bruin, Adam McBurney, Jamie Campbell, and Scott Steele. Mata will be joining Bristol Bears, Savala is headed to Northampton Saints, de Bruin is off to the Newcastle Falcons, and McBurney will be joining Connacht. Additionally, Nel announced in March that he will be retiring at the end of the season, while Campbell is looking to explore playing opportunities abroad.
Head coach Sean Everitt expressed his gratitude to the departing players for their contributions to the club, recognizing their valuable roles in the team’s success. He extended well wishes for their future endeavours and conveyed appreciation for their dedication and effort during their time with Edinburgh. Everitt also highlighted the individual and collective contributions of the players, emphasizing their significance to the team.
As the club prepares to bid farewell to these players, Everitt acknowledged that their absence will be keenly felt, both as individuals and athletes. On behalf of the entire Edinburgh team, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with each departing player. Despite their impending departure, Everitt recognized that they will continue to have significant roles as the team aims to conclude the season positively.
This announcement signifies a significant transition for Edinburgh Rugby as they ready themselves for the departure of key players at the season’s end. The club and its fans will undoubtedly feel the impact of their absence, but the legacy of their contributions will endure within the rugby community.