Craig putting his Saints injury problems behind him

BACK ON TRACK - James Craig had his fair share of injury problems last year, but has returned to action during pre-season (picture by Linda Dawson)

Craig played twice in as many days last week, starting the game at Moseley on Thursday night before coming off the bench in the success against Edinburgh 24 hours later.

He came through the experience unscathed, showing his ability as he enjoyed back-to-back victories in Saints colours.

There were plenty of reasons for the former Leeds player to celebrate as he added to a solid showing at Bedford a week earlier.

Craig spent most of last season sidelined with knee and shoulder problems, playing just 64 minutes in total as his injuries failed to ease up.

And the lofty lock is now hoping for much better luck during the forthcoming campaign as he aims to put pressure on Saints’ regular starters.

“It (last week’s back-to-back games) was tough,” said the 24-year-old, “but I didn’t play a lot last year and Nobby (Saints forwards coach Dorian West) joked, saying I played more in those two days than I did last season.

“It was reasonably accurate but hopefully I can put that last year behind me and get back to playing some rugby.”