Jamie Ritchie signs ‘longest contract’ in Edinburgh Rugby’s history

Ritchie, who made his senior debut as a 16-year-old with the Howe of Fife, has been one of Edinburgh Rugby’s most consistent performers in recent years having gone from strength to strength since signing his first deal straight from school seven years ago.

The former Scotland U20 captain made his debut against Leinster in 2014 and has gone on to make 73 appearances for the club and earn 23 caps (21 starts) for his country from a possible 29 Tests since his 2018 debut.

Now 24, the forward – who’s at home on either flank – ranks among the game’s most highly-regarded future on-field leaders.

Head coach Richard Cockerill said: “Jamie is an excellent young player with an old head on his shoulders. He has a really bright future ahead of him and we’re delighted he’s signed such a long-term deal.

“His work-rate is immense but it’s the quality of work within that which sets him apart.

“He’s a fantastic leader on the park and certainly has, in my opinion, the capacity to captain his country in the future.”

Since his Summer Test debut in the 2018 win over Canada, Ritchie has carved his name into an immensely competitive area for Edinburgh and Scotland.

Ritchie said: “I’m really chuffed to be staying at Edinburgh. It means a lot to me and my family to know we’ll be here for the foreseeable future.

“I have been at this club since I was 17 and these guys have been like my family since I left school. We have a strong group here and I think we can continue to improve.

“Edinburgh is a great club in a great city with an amazing bunch of boys who work extremely hard. I’m proud of what I have achieved so far in my time at the club and I feel there is so much more to come.

“I want to continue to help improve this club. I think we have made strides in the last few seasons and there’s still lots we can do to get better, on and off the field.

“With the leadership group we have here at the club I believe we can build something special and win silverware.”

The club has not specified how long he has signed for.