SCRUM-HALVES Henry Pyrgos and Charlie Shiel have signed contract extensions for the usual undisclosed lengths of time with Edinburgh. Given the recent recruitment of Ben Vellacott from Wasps for next season, it appears certain that Nic Groom will be moving on at the end of the current campaign.
“Henry and Charlie are both important players for this club and each bring a different style and skillset to the position,” said Edinburgh head coach Richard Cockerill.
“Henry is a proven international with a huge amount of experience in professional rugby, while his kicking and game management are integral to our overall attacking style.
Jim Telfer picks his 2021 Lions Test XV
Finn Russell handed three-match ban after red card versus France
“Charlie is still a young man learning his trade in the number nine jersey, but has showcased a real desire to improve his own game, and has shown he can be a dangerous player, especially in open play.
“With Ben Vellacott joining the club next season, we’re really excited to see this group of scrum-halves compete and push each other on.”
31-year-old Pyrgos said: “I’m really excited to continue my journey as there’s lots I still want to achieve personally and with this team.
“I’ve really enjoyed my three years at Edinburgh so far. It’s a great group to be involved with and I really feel the support from the fans.
“My family have loved living in the city and are really looking forward to getting to know it even better as things start to open up.
“The new stadium will be huge for the club moving forward. I know it’s been a long time coming for the fans and everyone connected with Edinburgh Rugby.
“I’m sure when it’s full – hopefully at the start of next season – it’ll be a great place to play and watch rugby.”
23-year-old Shiel added: “I’m really happy to be staying at Edinburgh with a great bunch of lads and I’m looking forward to continuing to push for the number nine jersey.
“I’ve really been trying to bring my own personality and the way I like to play to the position, but I’m still trying to perfect the smaller details that are so important to the game.
“For me, it’s always fun being able to bring a buzz and energy to the position – especially later on in the game with so many world class runners in this squad – but I’d still like to develop my own game to the point where I’m the starter at this club.
“It’s not been the same this season without any supporters and they are certainly missed by the entire squad.
“I can’t wait to pull on the jersey next season, hopefully in front of a packed out crowd in our new home.”
Not too disappointed by this. I thought Pyrgos may have been the one to go as he seems to have gone off the boil by his standards but on the plus side, it does mean they have retained the Scottish player when deciding who may be surplus to requirements
Another pair of safe hands