Rugby: Kiwi Sam Beard bound for Edinburgh

New Edinburgh recruit Sam Beard clings to possession for Bay of Plenty against Auckland during an August cup clash. Picture: Getty

The former Crusaders’ development player, who has enjoyed a steady progression through the New Zealand rugby ranks, is expected to arrive later this month. Edinburgh Rugby head coach, Alan Solomons, said: “Beard has played most of his rugby in Canterbury and has proved himself to be a solid young 12 in the ITM Cup.

“He’s played in the rugby hotbed of Canterbury in arguably the best breeding ground in the world. This opportunity is really an extended trial for him to prove he’s capable of adding value to our squad.”

Beard moved from Timaru to Christchurch to pursue a career in the sport and kicked off matters in earnest with Burnside’s championship-winning team. He was then called up to the provincial Canterbury B team and, after an impressive season in which he was named player of the year, was brought into the Crusader Knights. Bay of Plenty then offered the midfielder the next step on the provincial ladder, where he played out his first season before being approached to join the Murrayfield club.

Beard said: “This is a very exciting opportunity and I’m looking forward to immersing myself in the club and the rugby culture.”