Steelers plot route to Scotland after signing new deal

Published on 20/06/2012 01:57

THE popular Scottish tens team which plays annually in Dubai are hoping to play in Scotland later this year as interest in veterans rugby continues to rise.

Flying the Saltire in the middle east, the Xodus Steelers have twice reached the Dubai final with ex-internationalists including Gregor Townsend, Glenn Metcalfe, Rowen Shepherd, Duncan Hodge and James McLaren competing again in Scottish colours.

The Xodus Group has sponsored the Steelers since 2010 and the team have beaten a number of leading former internationalists from around the world on the way.

To mark the renewal of the sponsorship, the Steelers plan to take part in an event closer to home in August.

Stephen Swindell, of Xodus Group, was tight-lipped about where that may be as it is still to be confirmed, but stated: “We are thrilled to have agreed an extension to our title sponsorship deal with the Steelers. It is very exciting to have the additional tournament this year and we look forward to supporting the team, both at home and in Dubai.

Former Scotland full-back Shepherd has pulled together the team in recent years, as well as the sponsorship, and he believes it is an indication of the attraction of Scottish veterans rugby, and the interest of internationalists in still performing and enjoying the game after retiring from the pro ranks. He said: “It is another good sign for Scottish rugby that we have a Scottish firm backing a Scottish team and it does highlight the interest that there is in this kind of team.

“This deal is further evidence that we can attract and retain high-quality sponsors. We have been busy working on it since the turn of the year and we are hugely grateful to the Xodus Group for their continued support.”