EDINBURGH have re-signed Scotland prop WP Nel on a three-year contract.

The signing is a major boost for the club ahead of Richard Cockerill’s arrival as head coach in the summer.

The 30-year-old joined Edinburgh in 2012 and has scored 15 tries in 102 appearances.

The South African made his Scotland debut in 2015 after qualifying through the residency rule and has won 15 caps.

A neck injury ruled him out of this year’s RBS 6 Nations and he was a big loss for the national side.

Nel said: “I’m delighted to be staying at Edinburgh for another three years.

“It’s an awesome club and I’m looking forward to continuing to play here.

“These are exciting times for everyone involved and I feel that everything is moving in the right direction. It’s been great to see a lot of young talent coming through this season and hopefully I can help with their development in the coming years.

“I was very glad and honoured that Edinburgh and Scottish Rugby approached me with a new deal and there were no second thoughts on re-signing with the club.

“The city, Edinburgh Rugby and its supporters are very close to my heart, and that was a huge factor in our decision to stay.”

Acting head coach Duncan Hodge added: “To have a world-class player in a specialised position remaining at the club is a monumental boost to the squad.

“Props often peak late on in their careers and our fans can now look forward to WP entering this stage of his playing days in an Edinburgh Rugby shirt.

“The signing of a long-term contract will also allow our younger players access to an operator of WP’s experience, which will prove hugely beneficial for their personal development and the club going forward.”