DANNY CIPRIANI and James Haskell boosted their World Cup chances by singing for Gloucester and Northampton Saints.
Recalled England fly-half Cipriani signed a two-year deal at the Cherry and Whites and his Wasps team-mate Haskell penned a one-year contract at Franklin’s Gardens.
Cipriani, who was also named on Premiership Rugby’s player-of-the-season shortlist, said: “I’ve always enjoyed playing at Kingsholm and am excited at the prospect of spending the next few years in Cherry and White and playing in front of the Shed.
“Having spoken in depth with David Humphreys and Johan Ackermann, the future they have planned for the club is enticing and one that I very much want to be part of. It’s the most exciting move of my career to date.”
Cipriani has been the most in-demand player in English rugby – with Bath and Sale Sharks missing out on landing him.
Meanwhile Haskell had struggled to find a club and at 33-years-old most think his best years are well behind him.
But the Red Rose flanker said: “I’m really excited and humbled to be joining a giant of English rugby in Northampton Saints.
“I know this is a club with a proud history and a set of passionate and loyal supporters who always make their presence felt.
HE DAN GOOD Danny Cipriani picked by England after three years out in cold as Eddie Jones names South Africa summer tour squad
“It’s no secret that I want to continue my international career for as long as possible. The only way I can do that is by putting my best foot forward in club rugby and helping Saints fight their way back into contention for silverware.
“There’s a real buzz around Franklin’s Gardens at the moment with the arrival of Chris Boyd, a new coaching team being put in place and a number of top-quality players also joining the squad. I can’t wait to get started in Black, Green and Gold.”
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