The 1993 British & Irish Lions skipper played in several derby matches as a player and is now looking forward to watching his first game as Edinburgh’s chairman.

Hastings is relishing the opportunity to see so many internationals going head to head in the festive showdown at Murrayfield.

The Watsonians legend said: “The derby game has always attracted a lot of interest and it has always been an important match in Scottish rugby.

“During my playing days, the game was often seen to be an unofficial trial to see who should play for Scotland.

“Now that is even more important because there are only two professional teams in Scotland.

“And with so many current internationalists involved with both Edinburgh and Glasgow it will be another keenly contested battle.

“We are expecting a record crowd and, without a doubt, it is the biggest game in Scotland.”