Dylan Hartley signs new Northampton Saints deal

Dylan Hartley has signed a new contract with Premiership side Northampton Saints.

The England captain has also been reappointed as club captain after losing the role in 2015.

The 31-year-old previously captained Northampton between 2009 and 2015 and led the club to Premiership, European Rugby Challenge Cup and Anglo-Welsh Cup titles.

“It was an easy decision to commit my long-term playing future to Northampton Saints,” Hartley said in a statement.

“After completing my 11th year at Franklin’s Gardens last season I was delighted when the club suggested extending my time here. I’m very proud to be offered an opportunity to continue playing and being part of such a great club.

“When Jim [Mallinder] approached me about taking on the captaincy I was surprised. For me the timing is right and it is certainly a challenge I want to take on. I’m very passionate about the Saints and would love to see us competing for trophies. We have some valuable experience within the squad that will be driving the team forward this year.”

The hooker has made 229 appearances since joining from Worcester Warriors in 2006 and has led England to two successive Six Nations titles.

Cover Photo: Wanderers by Emma used under license by CC BY-SA 2.0.