Edinburgh Rugby: injury update

Edinburgh’s preparations for the upcoming URC season are in good shape with the news that the trio of Bill Mata, Jamie Ritchie and Nick Haining are progressing well with their rehab. 

Fijian number 8, Mata, sustained a serious knee injury in December while Ritchie was laid low by a bad hamstring tear during Scotland’s victory over England in February.  

While Mata’s progress is steady, Edinburgh boss Mike Blair insists that he will not be rushed back into the mix: 

 “With such a long term injury you’ve got to make sure you get the planning right and that he comes back in good shape so he’s not holding himself or restricting himself,” Blair said. “He’s running around and we hope to see him back training with us in the next couple of weeks.” 

Haining is close to the finish line after his shoulder surgery and is expected to return to action over the next couple of weeks or so. 

The South African duo of Boan Venter and Luan de Bruin are also recovering well after going under the knife. 

“Boan [Venter]’s not too far off, he’s in good shape as well,” said Blair. “Luan will be a little bit longer but again we expect him to be back in training in the next couple of weeks.” 

There is also good news at scrumhalf with Henry Immelman being passed fully fit after his knee issues of last season. 

Edinburgh have a pre-season camp scheduled to take place in Largs later in August, followed by two friendlies against London Scottish at home on September 2 and Benetton Treviso away on September 9 before the URC season kicks off.