Northampton fans braced for ‘end of an era’ with five players set to depart this summer
Rugby NewsMonday, 25 March 2024 at 14:13
Northampton Saints supporters brace themselves for the imminent departure of five beloved stars from Franklin's Gardens, marking what many describe as the "end of an era."
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As the current season draws to a close, several players find themselves at the end of their contracts, facing the decision of whether to renew their ties with the club or pursue lucrative offers elsewhere.
Among the departing figures is Courtney Lawes, a revered figure in Northampton whose roots run deep within the town. Having dedicated his entire career to the Saints since his debut in 2007, the 35-year-old's departure signals a significant shift in the team's dynamics.
Here, we delve into the profiles of the five players who have already confirmed their exits from Northampton, leaving fans grappling with a sense of nostalgia and anticipation for the future.
#1. Courtney Lawes
Lawes, the stalwart of Northampton Saints, will bid farewell to the club at the season's end, embarking on a new chapter with French outfit Brive.
With an illustrious career spanning 17 seasons and encompassing 274 appearances at Franklin's Gardens, Lawes leaves behind an indelible legacy.
Courtney Lawes of England continues his recovery from injury during the England Rugby Training camp at the Honda England Rugby Performance Centre, Pennyhill Park on 30 Jan. 2023 Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
Reflecting on his departure, the 35-year-old acknowledged Northampton's efforts to retain him, yet cited Brive's offer as "transformative" for both himself and his family.
"I want to make it clear that I really would have liked to end my career as a one-club man, and Saints did absolutely everything they possibly could to make that happen - our conversations were all very positive," said Lawes.
"But, first and foremost, I have to make sure that my family and I are in the best position possible for my retirement, which will be in the next couple of years.
"This is likely to be the last contract I'll ever sign, and the offer I have received to play overseas will be transformational for my family, so there was no way I could turn it down and I took the decision to move away from Northampton."
#2. Gabe Hamer-Webb
Hamer-Webb, 23, entered the fold at Saints on a short-term agreement back in January, stepping in to bolster the squad amidst injuries and international call-ups.
Formerly representing England at the Under-20s level, Hamer-Webb's arrival injects additional dynamism into Northampton's back three, as he integrates into the squad at cinch Stadium, Franklin's Gardens, until the month's end.
With key figures like James Ramm, Tom Seabrook, and George Hendy sidelined due to injuries, and George Furbank and Tommy Freeman set to link up with the England squad for Six Nations preparations, Hamer-Webb's presence becomes all the more crucial.
However, the current arrangement indicates his eventual departure from the club come summer.
#3. Alex Moon
Moon will leave the club at the end of the season to join Bayonne.
The 27-year-old has made over 120 appearances since his Saints debut in 2016 and scored three tries.
He is a former England Under-20 international and took part in a 2020 training camp for the senior side.
"Alex's move was announced very quickly by Bayonne, and we're disappointed our supporters will have heard the news that way," boss Phil Dowson said.
"We wanted to keep hold of Moony, but there were a few forces at play, with him wanting to play abroad at some stage and not being involved with England in the here and now."
Alex Moon of Northampton Saints looks dejected after losing during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Bristol Bears and Northampton Saints at Ashton Gate on 8 Sep. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK/Gallagher
#4. Charlie Savala
In a cross-border rugby transfer, Savala made his way to Northampton Saints on loan from Edinburgh Rugby for the 2023/24 season, landing in Northampton in November 2023.
The fly-half, who qualifies to play for England, boasts a tally of 33 appearances for Edinburgh since his inaugural outing in the 2020/21 United Rugby Championship campaign.
Originally hailing from Sydney, Australia, Savala embarked on his sporting journey in rugby league, honing his skills in Sydney Roosters' academy. However, a transition to rugby union beckoned, leading him to Scotland in 2020.
Despite showcasing notable prowess for the Saints, Savala's tenure with the English club appears temporary, with plans set for his return to Edinburgh at the season's conclusion.
#5. Lewis Ludlam
Ludlam, the 28-year-old captain of Premiership pace-setters Northampton Saints, is set to depart at the conclusion of the season.
Having garnered attention from French club Toulon, particularly following his contributions to England's third-place finish in the World Cup, Ludlam's move to the prominent French side has now been officially ratified.
Despite his significant role in Northampton, where he has amassed 121 senior appearances, Ludlam opted against extending his stay beyond the summer, declining the offer of a new contract.
"I know he has been torn," said Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson.
"He has made a difficult decision and we have to accept and respect that - but it doesn't make it any less disappointing to see him move on, after we offered a new contract and tried to keep him at Saints."
Lewis Ludlam (Northampton Saints, 10 caps) during England Rugby training session at The Lensbury Hotel, Teddington, London on 28 Sept 2021. Photo: Phil Mingo/PPAUK
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