Northampton Saints confirm contract extensions for three coaches - Including Phil Dowson

The trio have overseen one of the most successful periods in recent Saints history, delivering the 2024 Gallagher Premiership title and reaching the 2025 Investec Champions Cup Final, while driving a clear pathway for homegrown talent.

Chief Executive Julia Chapman hailed the move as “a clear sign of the Club’s ambition”, adding: “The culture and environment they’ve created – and the strong bond within the playing group – are fundamental to what makes Saints special.”

Dowson, who guided Saints to the Premiership crown just two years after becoming Director of Rugby, said: “I love this Club – it’s been a huge part of my life as both a player and a coach. We’ve got an incredibly talented playing group which still has so much more to offer.”

Vesty, architect of Saints’ high-tempo attack, added: “I’ve loved every minute of my seven years at Saints. What excites me most is the potential to go up another gear.”

Craig, credited with transforming the set-piece, said staying was “an easy decision”, adding:
“This squad has huge potential… and the coaching environment makes coming to work every day genuinely enjoyable.”