Alex Mitchell signs new deal to stay at Northampton

England scrum-half Alex Mitchell has signed a new multi-year contract with Northampton Saints, extending his stay at Franklin’s Gardens.

The 28-year-old has been a central figure for both club and country since emerging as England’s first-choice No.9 during the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

He played a pivotal role in Northampton’s Premiership title triumph in 2024 and was also selected for the British & Irish Lions tour of Australia, where he featured in all nine matchday squads.

Northampton’s director of rugby Phil Dowson described Mitchell as “one of the best scrum-halves in the world” and said his decision to remain at the club reflects both his quality and the Saints’ ambition.

"Alex is one of the best scrum-halves in the world and to keep someone of his quality in our environment speaks volumes about the ambitions of this club," said Dowson.

"To be involved in almost every game of a Lions tour is testament to that.

"We're thrilled to have him for the foreseeable future."

Mitchell, who has been with Northampton for a decade, said staying was an easy choice.

"Northampton has been my home for the last 10 seasons and there’s truly nowhere else I’d rather be playing my rugby,” he said.

“This group is very special, and the drive within the squad makes being part of this club so exciting.”

The scrum-half made his return from Lions duty in Northampton’s derby win over Leicester last weekend, producing another standout performance.