Brothers Team Up At Saints
14 February 2019, 18:27 | Updated: 14 February 2019, 18:30
Two-time World Cup winner Owen Franks will join older brother Ben at Northampton Saints Rugby Club from next season after the club have announced his signing from the Crusaders.
Owen Franks is to join his brother Ben at Franklin's Gardens.
Owen, a 31 year-old tighthead prop, has made in excess of 100 appearances for New Zealand and was part of the sides that lifted the Webb Ellis Cup in 2011 and 2015.
When he joins later this year, it will mark the first time he has played club rugby outside his homeland and he is set to add valuable experience to the Northampton pack.
He said:
"I've always taken a keen interest in northern hemisphere rugby so I'm looking forward to coming to the UK and proving myself.
The prospect of playing at Franklin's Gardens in front of Northampton's passionate supporters is hugely exciting for me and my family.
I'd also like to thank the NZRU and the Crusaders for their continued support, and for allowing me to live out my dream."
Franks played in all three Tests in a thrilling series draw against the British and Irish Lions in 2017, when he lined up against future Northampton team-mate Courtney Lawes.
Northampton director of rugby Chris Boyd is delighted at adding Franks to his ranks, having already announced the capture of fellow Kiwi Matt Proctor from the Hurricanes last month.
Boyd 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."
