Craig Wright: Northampton Saints hooker signs new contract

Homegrown hooker Craig Wright has signed a new contract with Northampton Saints.

The 21-year-old came through the academy set up at Franklin’s Gardens after first joining when he was 13.

The England Under-20 front-rower has made 11 appearances so far this season, including seven in the league, helping Saints to the top of the Prem table after nine games.

“It was an easy decision for me to stay at Saints,” Wright said.

“This is my home club, it’s where I grew up, and I’ve always felt a real connection to the place.”

Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson said it was “brilliant” to see Wright’s potential as a young player now start to play out in the first team.

“With more first-team minutes over the last 12 months, he’s grown in confidence and shown exactly what he can do,” Dowson said.

“Physically he’s outstanding – powerful, explosive, and already demonstrating the kind of athletic profile that sets top front rowers apart, which is remarkable for someone his age.

“He earned great praise during his time with England U20s. I think he’ll be on the senior international radar before long.”