Afshar extends Glasgow Warriors contract

The 23-year-old came off the bench to impressive effect in Saturday’s 25-21 victory over the Vodacom Bulls in the last-16 of the Investec Champions Cup, helping to steer his side to a first-ever home quarter-final in Europe’s premier club competition.

A former Scotland U20 captain, Afshar has made 35 appearances to date in Glasgow colours, having made his debut for the club off the bench in a 33-20 win over Ulster at Scotstoun in November 2023.

His first try for the club came in February 2024, marking his first start by running in the bonus-point try in a 40-7 win over the Dragons at Scotstoun.

He had previously been a part of the senior academy at Scotstoun, whilst the scrum-half had also been coached by future Glasgow team-mates Jamie Dobie whilst at Merchiston Castle, and Sean Kennedy whilst at Stirling Wolves.

Afshar represented Scotland A during February’s 24-24 draw with Italy XV in Rieti, having also previously represented the side during their victory over Chile in Edinburgh in 2024.

“I’m really happy to extend my stay at the club,” the scrum-half told glasgowwarriors.org

“It’s been a really good few years and I’m enjoying being part of the setup. The brand of rugby we play and the success we’ve seen over the last couple of years has been great and it’s a really exciting time to be a part of this club.

“There’s so much squad rotation that it really helps you build relationships with those around you, and it helps everyone build so much experience too. There’s also a big emphasis on improving as a person, too – it’s not all about how you are on the field, but Franco always says good people make good players. Being able to learn from the older boys here is brilliant.

“I’ve had a couple of run-outs on the wing this year, and being able to be multi-positional is a huge asset – it’s a string I’m always happy to add to my bow. We run the six-two split on the bench here, and you look at the success [Jamie] Dobie has had covering both scrum-half on the wing – I’m not saying I’m anywhere near his level yet, but having that versatility and understanding is only a good thing.

“The environment is so good here at the moment. The work everyone is putting in is translating to the performances we’re putting out on the field, and there are so many talented young guys coming through. We’re always challenged to be the best version of ourselves, and that’s what I’m striving towards.”

Head Coach Smith added: “Ben continues to grow and develop as a player, and we are pleased that he will be continuing his progression at Scotstoun for the next couple of seasons.

“He works hard to improve all areas of his game, and is keen to learn from those around him at every opportunity.

“He is also dedicated to becoming the best version of himself off the field, and has fully bought into what we are building here at Scotstoun.”