But it is on the field that the two teams need a change, finding it difficult to conjure an away win in the Welsh-Scottish League last season although proving difficult to beat at home.

Edinburgh have lost the services of prop Barry Stewart, who has retired from the game with a neck injury, but have moved to replace him with former Natal Sharks prop Gavin Whittingham.

Another Super 12 recruit is utility back Brendan Laney, who has signed a three-year contract and will join the club after he has completed the domestic season in New Zealand with Otago.

The other additions to the squad all share the common theme of youth and potential.

Boroughmuir fly-half Calvin Howarth, 24, Melrose centre Alistair Dickson, 23, Heriot's FP backrow Andrew Dall, 23, and Boroughmuir lock Alastair Davidson, 20, have all signed professional forms.

Lions tourist Simon Taylor has recovered from the knee ligament damage he sustained in Australia and the No 8 will play a crucial role in the club's fortunes.

Edinburgh will need all hands to the pumps if they are not to get swamped in the Heineken Cup, having been drawn in the same pool as Bath, Swansea and Biarritz.