New contract for Hardie

Scotland international flanker John Hardie has re-signed with Edinburgh on a one-year contract, the PRO12 side has announced on Wednesday.

The back-row joined the capital club following the national team's Rugby World Cup campaign in 2015 and has since made 19 appearances in the black and red.

Hardie, 28, joined Edinburgh from Super Rugby side the Highlanders, and made his debut in the Challenge Cup win over Grenoble at BT Murrayfield on 13 November 2015, before scoring his first try for the club the following week in the away win over Agen.

He debuted for the national team against Italy in Turin in August 2015 and was subsequently selected to represent Scotland at the Rugby World Cup, where he scored his side’s first try of the tournament in the 45-10 defeat of Japan.

Hardie has since been capped by Scotland on 15 occasions.

On penning a new deal, he said: "I’m looking forward to another year at Edinburgh. The club has been great to me since I arrived a few years ago, and I’ve loved every minute playing alongside the boys.

"It’s been a disappointing season for us all, but we’ve got a good squad and the potential to really kick on next season. There’s a good mix of youth and experience and we should really benefit from that going forward."

Acting Head Coach Duncan Hodge, said: "It’s great news for the club and Scottish rugby that John has committed to Edinburgh for another year.

"He’s an outstanding openside and gives everything for the shirt every time he takes to the field.

"It’s a real boost to the squad to add further depth to a highly-competitive back-row ahead of next season, and we’re looking forward to seeing the players thrive in that environment next year."