Overview
- Castres Olympique moved swiftly to sign Scotland flanker Hamish Watson for the 2026/27 season after Dalton Papali'i suffered a ruptured Achilles and underwent surgery, leaving the club short of a starting back-row option.
- Watson agreed a one-year contract after his short-term deal at Leicester expired, and he said Castres contacted him in recent days so he made a quick decision to join.
- The 34-year-old brings heavy experience with about 60 Test caps and roughly 180 appearances for Edinburgh, plus a reputation for work at the breakdown and ball-winning at rucks.
- Papali'i’s injury removes a marquee recruit from Castres’ preseason plans and creates an immediate need for physical, experienced cover in the open side role.
- Watson’s move continues a wider pattern this summer of established Scottish internationals relocating to France, a trend that could reshape club rosters and player career paths ahead of the new season.