MacLeod called up for Barbarians
Second Row McLeod, whose honours already include 24 international caps for Scotland, has been selected by Barbarians Coach and fellow Scotsman, Sean Lineen.
“I was over the moon to hear that I had been selected for the squad, it has always been considered to be one of the great honours in rugby to represent the Barbarians.”
Former Grand Slam winner Lineen, who is currently the coach of Scotland’s U20 team, will be joined by his U20’s assistant coach, John Dalzial while ex-Newcastle Falcon and Scotland international Rory Lawson will act as team manager.
MacLeod said: “I’m really looking forward to working with Sean and the rest of the coaching team, he has accomplished so much as a player in the past with Scotland and is now having a great impact on the Under 20’s side.”
The fixture, which will be held at the Heriots home ground in Edinburgh, will celebrate both teams 125th anniversary and will mark the first time in four years that the Barbarians have played on Scottish soil.
McLeod, who discovered rugby in his early 20’s, spent much of his early career playing in Scotland prior to him leaving for a brief stint playing in Japan, before returning to England to join the Falcons.
“It will be great to play in Scotland again, especially as a part of a Barbarians team, as they are renowned for playing fast paced, exciting rugby which will be will be great to be a part of.
“There’s certainly a feeling of nostalgia with the game being held at Heriots, although I haven’t had too much time to think about it as we’re preparing for Friday’s premiership fixture against Bath.”
Heriots, who currently sit first place in the Scottish BT Premiership, have produced an abundance of Scottish internationals in the past, including Andy Irving MBE who amassed 51 Caps in his playing career.
“Heriots are a really well established Scottish side and are known for playing open, expansive rugby which I think will make for a great fixture against the Barbarians.”
The Game will take place on Tuesday, April 25, with kick off scheduled for 6pm. Tickets are available from tickets@heriotsrugbyclub.co.uk.
