Scotland boss Andy Robinson has been handed a timely boost following the disappointing RBS 6 Nations campaign with three key players committing their futures to Edinburgh and Glasgow Warriors.
Centre Nick De Luca and flanker Ross Rennie, who was nominated as one of the players of the 2012 Championship, have signed new deals with Edinburgh through to 2014.
Meanwhile flanker John Barclay has extended his current contract with Glasgow for another year allowing Robinson access to three of his key players around international windows.
Next season, current Scotland attack coach Gregor Townsend will take the reins at Scotstoun and Barclay revealed he is looking forward to linking up with the former fly-half.
“I’ll be giving my all for Sean Lineen and the rest of the coaches as we try to reach the RaboDirect Pro12 play-offs, and will be doing likewise when Gregor Townsend, whom I know well from Scotland duty, takes over as head coach next season,” he said.
“The atmosphere and ambition around the club is the best I’ve experienced.
“It’s always a big call to decide where your future lies, particularly when you’ve been with one club for a significant period.
“I’ve taken some time to think through the decision, and I’m convinced that it’s the right one. Glasgow Warriors are going places and I want to contribute to that process.”
While Glasgow are flying high in the RaboDirect PRO12, Edinburgh have a date with French giants Toulouse in the Heineken Cup quarter-finals.
And despite Scotland’s Wooden Spoon in the 2012 RBS 6 Nations, Gunners coach Michael Bradley believes Rennie and De Luca’s commitment is a sign of good vibrations surrounding Scottish rugby.
He said: “Both will play a key role in the bright future being pieced together at this club.
“It’s fantastic news for Edinburgh Rugby that players of the calibre of Ross and Nick have committed these crucial years of their rugby careers to the club.
“They’ve played some tremendous rugby this season, showing the commitment, style and professionalism that we look to foster in all of our players here at Murrayfield.”
