| Earlier this week, Mike was named in the 38-strong Scotland training squad ahead of this autumn’s Rugby World Cup. He had an operation on his shoulder in March and is currently undergoing a rehab programme with Edinburgh and Scotland physiotherapist Stephen Mutch.
Mike is not only committing to a future with Edinburgh, as on Friday he is tying the knot with his long-term girlfriend, Viv Mackay. The couple are getting married at a ceremony in Midlothian.
Speaking about his new deal, Mike said: “I am delighted to be staying with Edinburgh as the new owners, Alex and Bob Carruthers, show a lot of ambition. I am therefore happy to be part of the club and help forge the direction in which it is going. I have also lived in the capital all my life and it is where I want to be.
“It has been frustrating being injured this year but I am working hard at the moment and looking forward to playing for Edinburgh next season.”
Lynn Howells, head coach, said: "Edinburgh is in a period of rebuilding and we have identified key personnel around whom we are building our squad. Mike, who has a wealth of experience and knowledge, is central to those plans and we are delighted to have him for at least the next couple of seasons.
“It shows commitment from one of our senior players who sees a positive future here and who would have been difficult to replace - it's another huge statement by the club to retain his services."
Edinburgh’s executive chairman Alex Carruthers added: “Mike is a world-class player and we are delighted he will be with us until 2009. The fact that he has committed for a further year is a huge positive for the club and sets up an exciting half-back partnership with Stephen Larkham.
“It was important for us to ensure Mike remains with the club as, no doubt, when he’s on the world stage in France this autumn, he will attract the attention of other clubs. This further underlines our commitment to building a team around established international players.
“It has been quite a year for Mike, signing a new contract with his existing club, getting married and looking forward to playing for Scotland in the World Cup. On the eve of his wedding, the phrase something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue seems fairly apt, and we’d like to wish Mike and Viv all the very best for their future together.”
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