Ex All Black one of two Northampton Saints departures

Northampton Saints have confirmed the departure of former All Blacks centre Matt Proctor from Franklin’s Gardens at the end of the season.

The one-cap New Zealand international has made 72 appearances for the Saints since joining from the Hurricanes in 2019, and will depart alongside academy graduate James Fish. The hooker made his Saints debut in 2016 and has gone on to make 77 appearances.

The pair have not been involved in matchday squads in recent weeks after Proctor picked up a leg injury in March. Nevertheless, they will want to end their Saints careers on a high, with the side already qualified for the Gallagher Premiership semi-finals.

On his departure, Proctor said: “I’m really proud to have represented Northampton Saints these last four seasons.

“When I first came over, I didn’t know what to expect, and it was obviously a challenging time to be halfway across the world from friends and family during the pandemic, but I have felt welcomed by the special rugby community here in Northampton ever since I first pulled on a Black, Green and Gold jersey.

“I want to thank everyone who has been a part of my time here, and while my injury will stop me from running out at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens one last time, I’ll always remember the feeling of playing here in Northampton with huge fondness.” 

Fish added: “I’ve had a great experience during my six seasons with Saints, and I feel very proud to have spent the majority of my career so far playing for Northampton.

“The time has come for me to move on, but I’m looking forward to a new challenge and I wish the rest of the squad and the coaches the very best for the future. For now, I’m focused on helping the team finish off the season as strongly as possible.”