Chris Dean to depart Edinburgh

Edinburgh Rugby today announced centurion and the club’s most-capped centre Chris Dean has been released from his playing contract by mutual agreement, to explore other playing opportunities.

Dean joined the club in the summer of 2014, following a successful stint with Scotland 7s.

The centre, who came through the ranks at North Berwick and Edinburgh Academy, represented Scotland at every age-grade level. His leadership qualities were evident early on, having captained Scotland U17 at the Wellington Festival in 2011.

He made his first competitive start for Edinburgh in a winning performance against Leinster in September 2015 and registered his first points with a try against Connacht in March the following year.

He would later captain Edinburgh to their sole Ladies’ Cup triumph at Melrose 7s in 2016 before a breakout season in 2017, scoring four tries in the opening three matches.

Dean’s talent and dedication were rewarded as he reached 50 appearances for the club against Ospreys in November 2017, and he was then named as one of seven uncapped players in the Scotland squad for the 2019 Six Nations.

A significant milestone was achieved in December 2020, when Dean celebrated his 100th appearance for Edinburgh in an away win over Sale Sharks in the Heineken Champions Cup.

The North Berwick man then cemented his legacy at the capital club by becoming their most-capped centre of all time, reaching the 150-appearance mark in an away victory over Cardiff Rugby last season.

Dean said: “This has been a difficult decision, and one I’ve not taken lightly in any way, however the time felt right for a new challenge. I’m incredibly thankful to Edinburgh Rugby for their support throughout my time here, and especially for working with me and allowing me to make this decision.

“I’m immensely proud of what I’ve achieved at this club. To be the club’s most-capped centre is a huge honour, and something I’ll always cherish.

“I’ve made some incredible friends for life and played alongside some fantastic teammates over the years, while I’ll always be appreciative for the unwavering support of the Edinburgh fans. I look forward to what the future holds.”

Head Coach Sean Everitt added: “Chris has been a fantastic servant to this club, on and off the pitch. His leadership by example and dedication to his teammates has been invaluable. He’s a great role model for all aspiring centres, not just for his skills on the field, but for his work ethic and professionalism.

“He’s etched his name in the club’s history books by becoming our most-capped centre of all time, a remarkable achievement that speaks volumes about his consistency and durability.

“He can be immensely proud of what he’s achieved during his time here, and leaves with the very best wishes of everyone at Edinburgh Rugby. He’ll always be welcome back at the club, whether as a fan in the stands or simply to share his experience with the next generation of Edinburgh players.”

Edinburgh Rugby Managing Director, Douglas Struth, added: “Chris has dedicated himself to the Edinburgh Rugby cause for over a decade.

“His professionalism and talent have been instrumental in creating unforgettable memories for our fans. From the dramatic late winner against Glasgow Warriors in 2017 to his crucial score in the European Champions Cup Quarter Final against Munster in 2019. Chris has delivered for Edinburgh on the biggest stages.

“Securing his place as both a club centurion and our most-capped centre is a testament to a great career. We look forward to celebrating his achievements properly next season at Hive Stadium, giving our supporters a chance to express their gratitude.

“We wish Chris and his family the very best in their next chapter.”