Grant Gilchrist and Ben Vellacott are set to continue their roles as co-captains of Edinburgh Rugby for the 2024/25 season.

The pair will once again share leadership duties, starting with the highly anticipated United Rugby Championship (URC) opener against Leinster on Friday night. 

Gilchrist, a key figure at Edinburgh Rugby, will be entering his sixth season as co-captain, having previously held the position during the 2016/17, 2020/21, 2021/22, 2022/23, and 2023/24 campaigns.

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The seasoned player, who began his rugby journey at Alloa Rugby Club and Stirling County, reached a milestone last season by making his 200th appearance for the club against the Hollywoodbets Sharks.

This achievement places him among an elite group as only the fourth player in Edinburgh's history to reach that mark.

Now, he looks forward to his 14th season with his lifelong team.

(Image: PA) “Edinburgh has been more than just a club to me; it’s been a second home,” Gilchrist said.

“I’ve grown as a player and as a person here, and I’m incredibly proud to continue representing this city and co-captaining this great team.

“To lead this talented squad alongside Ben [Vellacott] is a privilege. We’ve got a great group of players and a fantastic support base, and I can’t wait to get started at Hive Stadium this weekend.

“Kicking off against Leinster on Friday night is going to be a massive occasion, and we’re all looking forward to pulling on the jersey once again and getting the new season underway.”

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Vellacott also expressed his pride at taking up the role once again and added: “Edinburgh has become home for me and my family, and I’m so proud to continue representing this fantastic club as co-captain in 2024/25.

“Co-captaining alongside Grant [Gilchrist] is a huge honour and I’m excited to see what we can achieve together this season. Grant’s leadership qualities are invaluable and I was fortunate to lean on him last year.

“The environment within the team is brilliant and we’re all working hard to create a winning culture. 

“We’ve got a talented squad and a great support base, and we’re in a great place as a club to hit new heights this coming campaign.”

Edinburgh head coach Sean Everitt praised the duo’s leadership as he commented on his decision to stick by his captain’s. 

“I’m delighted to once again appoint Grant and Ben as co-captains for the new campaign,” he said.

“Their leadership qualities complement each other perfectly. They are the right men to continue leading this club.

“They have the respect of the full squad and are integral to creating a positive and winning culture. We’re excited to see what they can achieve together, starting with Leinster this Friday night.”