'No better club team I could be playing for' - Smith signs new Saints deal

Those were the words of Robbie Smith after his new deal at cinch Stadium at Franklin's Gardens was announced on Thursday morning.

The Scotland hooker will be staying with Saints for the foreseeable future after impressing since arriving from Newcastle in 2022.

Smith made his Saints debut in September that year and has since gone from strength to strength, adding almost 50 club appearances to his two senior Scotland caps.

Last season brought the toughest challenge yet for Smith as he suffered a serious knee injury that required three separate surgeries.

But the 27-year-old has returned in fine form and is relishing the chance to create more memories in black, green and gold.

“The amount of growth Saints have helped me achieve over the last four years is immeasurable," Smith said.

"The way the club supported me through my injury and guided me back to playing was outstanding.

“Everyone says it, but it’s true; there’s a real sense of togetherness here. The talent in the squad is obvious, but the unity within the group is our biggest strength.

"Whether you’re on the pitch or watching from the sidelines, everyone is fully bought in and pulling in the same direction to get results for the team.

“The coaching group are constantly driving us to improve as individuals, which ultimately makes us better collectively.

"For me, working with people like Jim Henry and Jaco Pienaar has been hugely beneficial around the set-piece and something I’ve really enjoyed.

"I know that if I keep playing well for Saints, I’ll continue to develop as a player – and hopefully that leads to more silverware for the club and international opportunities too.

“Finally, I don’t think there are many better places to play rugby than cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens. The way the fans get behind us, the noise, even the buzz in the warm-up – it’s one of the best atmospheres I’ve ever experienced.

"I can’t wait to make more memories here.”