Ben Toolis

Ben Toolis (born 31 March 1992) is an Australian-born rugby player who plays for Edinburgh Rugby in the Pro14. He plays primarily at Lock. He has made 19 international appearances for the Scotland national team.

Rugby career

In his early days he played for Australia Youth (U18) and Junior (U20)in volleyball games and had a background of rugby. The Brisbane born, Ben was in the Australian National Rugby Academy squad and played in the IRB Pacific Nations Cup. Subsequently, he was able to make it to the Premier Grade semi-finals in 2012 and 2013, a privilege he shared with his twin brother Alex.

Professional career

In 2013 the 6 ft 7in twins signed for Edinburgh Rugby, joining the club's Elite Development Player Programme. Coach Stevie Scott stated: "They're both very athletic and mobile, which are important attributes in the modern game."

Toolis' first try for Edinburgh came during the European Challenge Cup semi-final thrashing of Newport Gwent Dragons in April 2015.

International career

Toolis is eligible to represent Scotland as his mother, Linda, is from Carluke in Lanarkshire. After a good run of form for his club Toolis was called up to the Scotland squad for the 2015 Six Nations Championship, going on to make his international debut against Italy. He has subsequently played in two victories for Scotland over the country of his birth.