Fiji international Sam Matavesi heads to Northampton Saints

Fiji international Sam Matavesi is set to make his debut in the Gallagher Premiership after he was signed by Northampton Saints on immediate effect.

The 27-year-old made his professional rugby debut with Plymouth in 2010 and will head to Franklin's Gardens from Championship side Cornish Pirates. He also enjoyed loan stint with Toulouse last season when they went on to clinch the Top14 title.

The 5ft 11in hooker has represented Fiji 14 times since making his international debut in 2013 and featured in all four games for his side in the recently concluded World Cup in Japan.

Matavesi said he is excited about representing Northampton in the Premiership and in the Heineken Champions Cup.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for me to compete at the top level of English rugby and I can’t wait to pull on a Black, Green and Gold jersey for the first time,” he told the official website of the club.

“Northampton Saints is a Club steeped in history and the team is playing a fantastic brand of rugby at the moment – plus having a few fellow Fijians here at Franklin’s Gardens is a nice bonus! I can’t wait to get started.”

Northampton Saints had a terrific start to the ongoing season as they occupy the top position in the Gallagher Premiership table with four wins from five matches while also winning both the matches in the Champions Cup.