Scotland scrum-half Henry Pyrgos has joined Edinburgh Rugby for a new challenge after spending eight years with Scottish rivals Glasgow Warriors.
The Scotland international – who has 29 caps for his country, including six appearances in the Six Nations – will join up with Richard Cockerill’s side on a one-year contract.
Pyrgos made his international debut against New Zealand in the 2012 Autumn Tests and went on to star at the 2015 Rugby World Cup in England where he captained his country against the USA.
Yet the former Loughborough University student believes that it is time for a new challenge after a stint at Scotstoun Stadium that saw him lift the Guinness PRO14 title in 2015.
“I’m really excited by the opportunity to join Edinburgh,” he said. “The club has a great playing squad and coaching team, so I’m looking forward to being part of it.
“I believe the club is a great place for me to continue to develop as a player.”
And Pyrgos reserved fond words for his former club, where he had spent the entirety of his professional career.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my eight years at Glasgow,” he continued. “Winning the league in 2015 was an incredible moment and one I’ll always remember.”
The 28-year-old made 147 appearances for the Warriors, and brings a wealth of experience to an Edinburgh side that finished third in Conference B of last season’s PRO14.
And after their strong campaign, head coach Richard Cockerill spoke of his excitement at adding further star quality to a squad that will be looking to continue their upward trajectory next year. “Henry is a proven leader and comes with bags of experience which will add real strength in depth to our scrum-half group,” he said.
“He’s a winner and has captained Scotland, so it’s great that he feels Edinburgh is a place where he can compete for further honours with both club and country.”
