Northampton Saints have confirmed that they have signed All Blacks Prop Owen Franks. Franks apparently has turned his back on advances from Toulon and will join the Saints after the World Cup.
Franks has ran out for the All Blacks in 105 tests since making his debut in 2009, it is believed he has
Midi Olympique had reported that the 31-year-old, Franks weighed up whether to join Toulon or Northampton and chose the latter. He becomes part of a growing trend of All Blacks opting not to go to France, with Ardie Savea, Kieran Read, Ryan Crotty and Beauden Barrett all rejecting French advances.
Nehe Milner-Skudder and Ben Smith have both bucked the trend and have signed with Toulon and Pau respectively.
Franks will link up again with his brother Ben who is currently with Northampton and also with former Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd.
Speaking on his move, Franks said;
I’d like to thank Chris Boyd and Northampton Saints for showing faith in me and giving me this opportunity to come and play in the Gallagher Premiership,”
“I’ve always taken a keen interest in northern hemisphere rugby so I’m looking forward to coming to the UK and proving myself, while the prospect of playing at Franklin’s Gardens in front of Northampton’s passionate supporters is hugely exciting for me and my family.”
And, after already securing the signing of All Black centre Matt Proctor from the Hurricanes, Northampton director of rugby Chris Boyd is thrilled to welcome another player of Franks’ pedigree next season.
He said:
“Owen is a world-class operator whose record speaks for itself. He not only will improve the quality within our playing squad, but – like his brother – his attitude will set the standard for the entire group.
“His level of professionalism can serve as a fine example for other members of the squad, and he’s a very intelligent footballer – I know several of our young props are already looking forward to picking his brain.”
“The fact that he has played with distinction at the highest level of the game for so long speaks volumes about his ability, so I’m absolutely delighted to welcome Owen here to Northampton next season.”
