Hamish Watson, a 34-year-old Scotland international with 59 caps, has completed a move from Edinburgh to French Top 14 side Castres on a one-year contract. The transfer comes after Castres' fellow flanker Dalton Papali'i suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon requiring surgery and extended recovery time. Watson, who joined Edinburgh in 2011 and accumulated nearly 160 appearances for the Scottish club, had recently completed a loan spell at Leicester Tigers in English rugby.

Castres recruited Watson following his rapid decision to accept their offer, with the veteran player expressing enthusiasm for competing in French rugby at a high level. The club values his international experience spanning more than a decade and his proven reputation for work rate and proficiency at winning possession in the ruck. Watson joins Castres as the club aims to improve on their 10th-place finish from the previous Top 14 season.