Back row Sam Graham pens new deal with Northampton

Northampton Saints have announced that back rower Sam Graham has penned a new contract with the Gallagher Premiership club.

Graham made 28 Doncaster appearances in two seasons after joining from Bristol Bears and was named club captain ahead of the 2021/22 campaign. He also spent time overseas developing his game with Auckland’s Massey RFC in New Zealand prior to joining the Bears and also had a loan stint with Hartpury.

The 26-year-old played 31 times for the Saints since joining them in the summer of 2022.

“From the moment we first spoke to Sam about coming to Northampton, I’ve been nothing but impressed by him,” said Director of Rugby Phil Dowson.

“His desire to grow and develop as a player has been second to none since then.

“Sam does a lot of the unseen, ugly stuff out there on the field – the selfless stuff that goes a long way in rugby.

“His understanding of our game and how he fits into it has improved tenfold, and it is testament to his hard work that he’s become an important leader within our group.”

Graham is pleased with extending his stay at the club.

“I’m really excited about what we’re building here at Saints,” said Graham.

“In the fairly short amount of time I’ve been in Northampton, I’ve become heavily invested in the Club and that’s credit to the way that both myself and my family have been welcomed into the tight-knit group here.

“My game has grown all round and I’ve loved being given the space to develop alongside some of the best players and coaches that there are in rugby.

“Signing on again was a really simple decision for me and I’m looking forward to what the next few seasons have in store – first and foremost from a career point of view, but also in my personal life – and I’m delighted I’ll be able to experience it all in Northampton.”