Edinburgh: Sean Kennedy and Sam Hidalgo-Clyne extend stay

Scrum-halves Sean Kennedy and Sam Hidalgo-Clyne have both signed contract extensions with Edinburgh.

Kennedy, 22, and Hidalgo-Clyne, 20, have committed themselves to the Pro12 club until 2016.

Edinburgh head coach Alan Solomons said: "Sam has a wonderful future ahead of him.

"Like Sam, I believe Sean has the qualities necessary to go on to play Test rugby for Scotland."

Spain-born Hidalgo-Clyne is a Scotland Under-20 and Scotland Sevens international, while Kennedy was included in Scotland's 2013 Six Nations training camp before playing for Scotland A in their win over England Saxons.

"It's tremendously pleasing to see young Scottish players come through," said Solomons.

"Sam has progressed tremendously since the beginning of the season.

"He's had a bit of game time and it's fantastic that he's committed to Edinburgh Rugby.

"Similarly, Sean, who's a little bit older and more experienced, is also a fine young player and a tremendous prospect.

"Scrum-half is a key position. It's vital that we have good depth and we certainly have quality in that area."

Both Kennedy and Hidalgo-Clyne face competition for places from skipper Greig Laidlaw and summer signing Grayson Hart.

Kennedy, whose cousin, lock Grant Gilchrist, signed as an elite development player in 2011 and penned a two-year contract in June.

And the product of Alloa and local club Stirling County thinks competition for places is good for Edinburgh.

"I'm really excited to be offered another extension," Kennedy said. "On and off the field, we've grown as a club.

"There's a lot of competition and quality at scrum-half and across the whole squad, so hopefully that will continue to make us better."

Hidalgo-Clyne started his career with Forrester before being awarded scholarships at Merchiston Castle School and the prestigious Canterbury Rugby Football Experience in New Zealand.

He made his senior debut for Edinburgh after injuries to both Laidlaw and Kennedy earlier in the season and said it was "fantastic" to have earned a new deal.

"I've been involved a lot more than I expected this season, which has been brilliant," he said.

"It's now up to me to push on as much as I can and compete for the number nine jersey against some quality, experienced players."