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Stand-Off Savala Stays In The Capital

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Stand-off Charlie Savala has become the latest Edinburgh Rugby player to commit his future to the club, with the 21-year-old today putting pen-to-paper on a new deal.

The Sydney-born playmaker – who qualifies for Scotland through his Ayr-born father – has so far made eight appearances for the club and started in last December’s famous 21-18 European win against Saracens at StoneX Stadium.

The 6’3 stand-off joined the club from the Sydney Roosters in October 2020 – making the cross-code switch from rugby league – and has adapted quickly to his new surroundings in the Scottish capital.

Savala said: “It’s a special moment for myself. This club means a lot to me. I’m so grateful to be in the position I am and to be part of such a competitive squad.

“I’m glad to have found my feet here. I love this place and being a part of the club. This is my home and I’m excited to see what the future holds in the Edinburgh jersey.

“This is everything I’ve ever wanted. To be able to stay at the club I love and to call it home is awesome. I’ve made some good friends here and I’m really grateful for the boys I’ve got around me.”

Born in Sydney, Savala played cricket, basketball and soccer in his youth, before focusing on rugby union, rugby league and AFL, as he progressed through the age grades.

The stand-off attended the prestigious Scots College in Sydney where he focussed primarily on rugby union, ultimately earning selection for the Australia Schools Cup winning New South Wales side.

Savala joined National Rugby League side Sydney Roosters on a two-year deal in 2018/19 where he was promoted to the top squad prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, with playing opportunities limited in the new pandemic world, Savala crossed continents and rugby codes to join Edinburgh in October 2020.

Savala made his Edinburgh Rugby debut against Cardiff Rugby in March 2021, where he started at stand-off, kicking a single conversion and penalty in a 34-15 defeat at the Arms Park.

His finest moment in an Edinburgh jersey so far came against English Premiership heavyweights Saracens last December, where he displayed confidence and attacking prowess, laying on a try for Ramiro Moyano with a perfectly weighted cross-field kick, while managing the game in tricky conditions.

Savala was rewarded for his club form when he was named in Scotland’s 2021 Autumn Nations Series training squad.

Head Coach Mike Blair added: “I’m really excited to see Charlie re-sign. He’s a guy that possesses a lot of natural talent, while he’s really popular around the club and brings a brilliant attitude to training every day.

“Charlie’s ball playing skills are clear to see. He’s got great vision and plays with raw instinct, while he’s stepping up to be a real leader in the playing group too.

“What’s also impressed me about Charlie is he continues to work hard on those parts of his game that will make him an even better stand-off in the future, like his game management and tactical kicking.

“It’s great that Charlie is happy in Edinburgh and we’re excited to see how he develops his game alongside the other half-backs at the club.”

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Alan Straton

Chief Cook, Bottle Washer and Broom Mechanic at MyPE
Passionate about Port Elizabeth and definitely NOT packing for Perth. Alan's ethos is epitomised in the words of Nelson Mandela; "I have fought against white domination and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the idea of a democratic and free society. If need be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die." See more articles by Alan.