Rory Hutchinson: Northampton Saints centre extends contract with club

Scotland’s Rory Hutchinson has agreed to stay with the Northampton Saints till the end of the current campaign.

The 28-year-old, who went through the Saints program, has made 150 appearances and scored 32 tries.

But in a 42-36 victory against Exeter in January, he scored his lone try for the Premiership leaders this year.

“Winning some silverware is the most important thing for me for this next period at the club,” Hutchinson stated on the official club website.

“I don’t want there to be any’should have’ or ‘could have’ moments when I reflect on my work in 20 years. Thus, it’s crucial that, as a team, we aim to win trophies and communicate with our on-field deeds

Northampton are seven points clear at the top of the table with six games remaining before the play-offs.

They will play Sale Sharks in a friendly on Friday, prior to recommencing competitive action away to Bristol Bears seven days later.

Director of rugby Phil Dowson said Hutchinson’s game had reached a new level this season because of the input of defence coach Lee Radford.

“He’s got a huge differential with his game in how he is able to move the ball, to see space and put people into it,” he said.

Hutch has put in a lot of work, and having Lee in our group has helped him by giving him a fresh perspective on his work and encouraging him to do even better.

“He has also developed physically, being a bit heavier and a bit stronger, which you can see in his collision work this season.”

Elliot Millar Mills, Hutchinson’s Scotland teammate, and Saints reached an agreement on a new deal on Tuesday.

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