Tom Stephenson signs for London Irish

London Irish have completed the capture of Premiership winning centre Tom Stephenson from Northampton Saints for the 2018/19 season.

Stephenson, 23, who was part of the Saints set-up that scooped the Premiership and the European Rugby Challenge Cup in 2014, brings pace, power and creativity to the Exiles’ backline.

“From speaking to Danny, who I’ve played with at Northampton and in the England Under-20s team, there is an exciting set-up at London Irish and I’m really enthusiastic about being part of the club’s future under Declan Kidney,” said Stephenson.

“I feel that I’m ready for a fresh challenge and hopefully I can hit the ground running when I arrive at Hazelwood in the summer.”

The two-time World Rugby U20 Championship winner has played 54 times for the Franklin’s Gardens outfit and has underlined his bourgeoning credentials with two tries last campaign.