Hamish Watson has joined Leicester Tigers on a short-term loan deal.
The former Scotland star and openside flanker’s move has been confirmed after he made only one appearance for Edinburgh Rugby this season. That single appearance was in the defeat to Zebre on the opening weekend of the United Rugby Championship (URC) season.
Watson previously spent time in the Tigers academy. The short-term deal comes after a raft of injuries at Leicester.
Watson’s ‘Full-Circle Moment’
Edinburgh Rugby confirmed that Hamish Watson has joined Leicester Tigers on a short-term loan deal with immediate effect.
The agreement runs until the end of April. It is designed to provide the Scotland international with further playing opportunities through a run of consistent fixtures.
Leicester also confirmed the news on their official website.
Watson said it was a “full-circle moment” to rejoin Tigers, having been in their academy system earlier in his career.
“It is such a prestigious club and it’s an honour to join them, even on a short-term basis.”
Watson added, “I played at Welford Road in the A-League, and then again for Edinburgh a few years ago, and the chance to play in front of that famous crowd would be a privilege.”
Tigers Boosted by Watson’s Arrival
Tigers boss Geoff Parling said the signing would be a significant boost to his side as they compete in the PREM and Champions Cup.
Parling said, “We’ve had some injuries in the back five of the pack so it’s a real boost to be able to add someone of Hamish’s quality at such short notice.”
“It’s quite full circle for him to be in our academy and then get the chance to represent us so many years later.”
“We’ve had conversations around the fluidity of how long he’ll be with us when others start returning, but it’s great to hear how hungry he is to represent Tigers, and we look forward to welcoming him at Oval Park.”