Northampton quiet man Henry Walker not daunted by hooker challenge

Experienced hooker Henry Walker has signed a new contract at Gallagher PREM leaders Northampton, extending his stay at the club beyond the end of the current season.

The 28-year, who joined Saints from Ealing 15 months ago, will continue to compete with England international Curtis Langdon, Craig Wright and Robbie Smith for the No.2 jersey next season.

The hooker has made nine appearances in a Saints shirt so far this season and is delighted to be remaining at the club for the foreseeable future.

“I’ve really enjoyed my time here so far, so when the opportunity to stay came up it was a very easy decision,” said Walker.

“There’s a great group of lads at the club and a really strong coaching group as well, which made it straightforward for me.

“From a family point of view too, the club have been brilliant. They’ve been incredibly welcoming to my wife and that family feel around the place is something I really value. It’s a big part of why I love being here and why I’m keen to stick around.

“There’s a very competitive group of hookers at Saints, but it’s a healthy competition. We’re honest with each other, we share feedback all the time and we push each other to be better. That’s great for us as a unit, but it also pushes me personally to keep improving and to help the team however I can, whether that’s on the pitch or off it.

“The squad as a whole is very ambitious. We want to be challenging for finals this season, and that takes a full squad effort.

“This season has been really enjoyable so far. Playing in big games is what every player wants, and hopefully I can keep doing that here with Saints.”

A graduate of Gloucester Rugby’s Academy, Walker made 72 competitive appearances for the Cherry and Whites across an eight-year spell following his senior debut at Kingsholm in 2015.

He joined Ealing Trailfinders at the conclusion of the 2023/24 season, continuing his rugby journey in the Champ, before making a swift return to the Gallagher PREM when Saints announced his signing in December 2024.

Saints’ Director of Rugby, Phil Dowson, is delighted to retain the services of Walker, who played for England in every age group, from U16s to U20s.

“We’ve got a very competitive group of hookers here, with Craig Wright and Robbie Smith both pushing hard for selection, Curtis Langdon coming back from injury now, and Henry is right in the mix with them. That competition is healthy for the group and Henry has embraced it,” he said.

“He’s very coachable. He takes on the areas we highlight and works extremely hard to improve them, and when he gets his opportunities he brings a really strong skillset.

“He’s comfortable playing the way we want to play, handles the ball well, puts people into space, and his set piece work with Jim Henry has come on hugely. His throwing is very reliable and he’s someone we can depend on.

“Physically, he’s in a good place as well. He goes about his work properly and trains with real intent every day. He’s one of the quieter lads in the squad, but he looks after people and makes sure those around him are doing alright, which is important in a group like ours.

“Most importantly, he always wants to play and to contribute, and whenever he gets an opportunity on the pitch, he makes the most of it. He’s a good player, a good man, and we value Henry hugely – so we’re really pleased to be keeping him here.”