“I arrived as a 25-year-old who had never played at the highest level, and I feel I’ve developed hugely during my time here. That is a real credit to the coaches and performance staff, who backed me, challenged me and gave me the opportunity to grow as a player.
“While this feels like the right time to take on a new challenge, leaving this group and the environment we’ve built at Saints is incredibly difficult. I’ve made friends for life, tons of special memories and connections, and feel proud knowing the Club is in an even better place than when I arrived.
“Playing in front of such passionate supporters and being part of the Northampton community – particularly contributing where I could to the incredible impact of Northampton Saints Foundation – has meant a great deal to me, and I remain fully focused on finishing this season strongly and hopefully adding more silverware before I move on.”
Following impressive spells in the Champ with both Doncaster and Bedford Blues, as well as in National One with Loughborough Students, James arrived in Northampton in 2020.
The scrum-half had previously represented England Students in 2016, and made his senior Saints debut against London Irish in late 2020 – shortly after rugby resumed following the pandemic shutdown – quickly establishing himself as a reliable and trusted member of Saints’ playing group.
James opened his try-scoring account for the Club on his European debut, crossing in the Investec Champions Cup against Leinster in Dublin, and has regularly contributed valuable points throughout his time in Northampton.
