Alex Coles, the towering 6'7" lock and England international, has inked a new deal to stay with Northampton Saints, signaling his intention to chase more glory both domestically and on the international stage. His commitment follows a series of re-signings at the club, indicating a strong and stable future for the Saints.
Since joining the Saints' Academy at the tender age of 13, Coles has grown into a key figure for the club, amassing 136 appearances and earning 11 caps for England. His journey from a debut in 2018 against Wasps to becoming a linchpin in the team underscores his development into a top-class athlete noted for his lineout skills, dynamic ball-carrying, and increasing knack for crossing the try line.
In recent seasons, Coles has shown a sharp uptick in try-scoring, with a notable 10 tries in the last two campaigns, including critical scores in major fixtures like the Investec Champions Cup final. This scoring ability, combined with his consistent performance, helped him secure a spot in the Premiership Team of the Season and contributed significantly to Northampton's Premiership triumph in 2024.
"Staying at the Club that’s shown such faith in me was an easy decision,"
he remarked, expressing his deep-rooted connection with the team and the community. Coles' ambition doesn't stop at club success; he has his sights set on furthering his international career, with the 2027 Rugby World Cup firmly in his crosshairs.
Phil Dowson, Northampton's Director of Rugby, couldn't hide his delight at securing Coles for the long term, praising his on-field prowess and off-field attitude.
"I can’t speak highly enough of Alex Coles for what he brings on and off the pitch. He’s invaluable in our environment – a lineout specialist and set-piece warrior who drives standards across the board,"
Dowson commented. He highlighted Coles' versatility, work ethic, and leadership, all of which are integral to the Saints' set-up. According to Dowson, Coles' best rugby is still ahead of him, a sentiment that bodes well for both Northampton and England.
Coles' re-signing is not just a win for Northampton but a statement of intent. As someone who embodies the spirit and ambition of the club, his continued presence is set to inspire both teammates and fans, ensuring the Saints remain a force in English rugby and beyond.
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Alex Coles, the towering 6'7" lock and England international, has inked a new deal to stay with Northampton Saints, signaling his intention to chase more glory both domestically and on the international stage. His commitment follows a series of re-signings at the club, indicating a strong and stable future for the Saints.
Since joining the Saints' Academy at the tender age of 13, Coles has grown into a key figure for the club, amassing 136 appearances and earning 11 caps for England. His journey from a debut in 2018 against Wasps to becoming a linchpin in the team underscores his development into a top-class athlete noted for his lineout skills, dynamic ball-carrying, and increasing knack for crossing the try line.
In recent seasons, Coles has shown a sharp uptick in try-scoring, with a notable 10 tries in the last two campaigns, including critical scores in major fixtures like the Investec Champions Cup final. This scoring ability, combined with his consistent performance, helped him secure a spot in the Premiership Team of the Season and contributed significantly to Northampton's Premiership triumph in 2024.
"Staying at the Club that’s shown such faith in me was an easy decision,"
he remarked, expressing his deep-rooted connection with the team and the community. Coles' ambition doesn't stop at club success; he has his sights set on furthering his international career, with the 2027 Rugby World Cup firmly in his crosshairs.
Phil Dowson, Northampton's Director of Rugby, couldn't hide his delight at securing Coles for the long term, praising his on-field prowess and off-field attitude.
"I can’t speak highly enough of Alex Coles for what he brings on and off the pitch. He’s invaluable in our environment – a lineout specialist and set-piece warrior who drives standards across the board,"
Dowson commented. He highlighted Coles' versatility, work ethic, and leadership, all of which are integral to the Saints' set-up. According to Dowson, Coles' best rugby is still ahead of him, a sentiment that bodes well for both Northampton and England.
Coles' re-signing is not just a win for Northampton but a statement of intent. As someone who embodies the spirit and ambition of the club, his continued presence is set to inspire both teammates and fans, ensuring the Saints remain a force in English rugby and beyond.