The 22-year-old was one of Edinburgh's stand-out players in the first half of the season and was a key member of the Scotland A squad which impressed in their matches during February.

That form led to him being drafted into the full Scotland side for the RBS 6 Nations match against Ireland at Croke Park.

And his dream came true when he made his Test debut as a replacement for Kelly Brown in Scotland's third consecutive defeat in the 2008 RBS 6 Nations.

His form with his club was maintained until he underwent a knee operation which ended his season - but the time off has given him a chance to sign a new deal with Edinburgh.

He said: "I have been really happy with how the season has gone for me personally and also for the team. I never expected to get any game-time for Scotland this year; I have just tried as well as I can for Edinburgh.

"It was a great occasion for me to get a cap and hopefully I will get the chance to win another one soon enough.

"I have been at Edinburgh for a long time both as an apprentice and as a professional, so I know what Edinburgh is about. It is a great club and I'm very happy to be a part of it.

"It is good that we have such a young team that is already getting some great results because you can see it develop."