Magnus Bradbury stripped of Edinburgh club captaincy

Edinburgh’s Magnus Bradbury has been stripped of the club captaincy it has emerged.

The decision comes after an internal investigation that found that Bradbury had injured himself on a night out.

According to a report by BBC Scotland’s Andy Burke, headcoach Richard Cockerill said of the incident: “I’m sure everyone has been there at some point when they wake up on a Sunday morning regretting what they’ve done on a Saturday night. That’s part of growing up.

“Magnus is no longer the captain of the team and that’s his sanction for not being able to manage his behaviour away from the field.

“They know how to behave and if they choose to behave outside of that then clearly I have to manage it.”

Lock Fraser McKenzie has been appointed as the club’s captain for the remainder of the season.

The 29-year-old second row has played 86 games in the black and red over two spells with the club, scoring six tries in the process.

On the appointment, Head Coach Richard Cockerill said on the club’s website:

“Fraser has captained the side on a number of occasions already and has shown that he has an ability to lead.

“He is tough and isn’t scared to get in the mix, which is what we need heading forward. I have every confidence that Fraser will be an excellent choice as our club captain”

McKenzie, who began his career with Edinburgh in 2006, was delighted to be announced as the club’s captain and is looking forward to the challenge ahead.

“I would of course like to take over the role in different circumstances,” he said, “but I’m honoured to be chosen to lead the side for the remainder of the season.

Last week Scotland and Edinburgh flanker John Hardie was suspended pending an internal investigation.

Scottish Rugby and Edinburgh on Friday confirmed the back-row will not be available for selection for club or country, but gave no details on why the 29-year-old is not being considered.

New Zealand-born Hardie, capped 16 times by Scotland, will not be picked for the November Tests against Samoa, New Zealand and Australia as it stands.

A statement released by Scottish Rugby said: “Scottish Rugby and Edinburgh Rugby confirm that Scotland international and Edinburgh forward, John Hardie, has been suspended from duty pending an internal investigation.

“As a result the player will not be available for selection for Edinburgh, or the Scotland National Team.

“It is normal practice with such matters that we are unable to comment further given the nature of the investigation.”