Tom Collins names his new club after leaving Northampton

Seasoned Gallagher Premiership player Tom Collins has signed for Championship club Ealing Trailfinders following his release from Northampton. It was April 19 when Saints confirmed that the utility back would be leaving at the end of the 2022/23 season and he has now found himself a new club 15 weeks later.

A statement read: “Trailfinders are pleased to announce the signing of Tom Collins ahead of the 2023/24 Championship season. The versatile back, who is comfortable on the wing or at full-back, joins following a stellar period at Northampton Saints.

“Collins played with Saints for a decade and throughout that time, recorded 144 appearances and scored 48 tries. The 28-year-old is a product of the Northampton academy and also represented England at age grade.

“He was part of the side that won the 2013 U20s Six Nations and went on to win the Premiership breakthrough player of the year the following year. Collins made his debut for Saints during their triumphant 2013/14 campaign, scoring a try in their Challenge Cup semi-final against Harlequins on the way to a historic league and European trophy double.

“The back would go on to play an important role in Saints' 2018/19 Premiership Rugby Cup win. During the 2022/23 season, he scored seven times for Northampton, including braces against Harlequins and Sale Sharks.”

Collins said: “I can’t wait to continue my rugby journey here. I had an unforgettable time with Northampton but I am ready to make new memories and grow my game in London. The Trailfinders squad gives me a great opportunity to test myself in a competitive environment and I hope I can bring a lot to the team.”

Director of rugby Ben Ward added: “I am thrilled to welcome Tom to Trailfinders. It is great to sign a player of his calibre and I am confident he will have a significant impact on the squad both on and off the pitch.”