Saints forward Benson 'a great reminder there are still hidden gems out there'

The 25-year-old back row forward signed a new Northampton contract on Wednesday, extending his stay at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens.

Benson arrived at Saints in 2024 having been ever‑present for National League 2 West side Luctonians as the club recorded their highest‑ever league finishes in back‑to‑back seasons.

A former Dean Close School captain and England Under‑18 international, he made his Saints debut against Nottingham in a PREM Rugby Cup in November 2024.

His first try in Saints colours followed on his maiden start against the same opposition in February, before he went on to make his Gallagher PREM debut in May 2025.

This season, Benson has continued to impress, featuring heavily during Saints’ Cup campaign that culminated in a semi‑final appearance, while also playing his part in the memorable PREM victory over Bath at the Recreation Ground in December.

And Dowson is delighted to be able to keep the player, who is targeting an international call-up in the not too distant future.

“Archie came in from Luctonians on a week‑long trial and we liked him straight away,” Dowson explained.

"From the first moment he showed a real feel for the game – he got stuck in, wanted to help out, was keen to learn and was desperate to test himself at the top level.

“Since then, we’ve just seen more and more of that. He’s an important part of our group and very much on the journey with us.

"He’s worked incredibly hard on the training pitch and during his time in the CHAMP with Bedford, pushing himself to improve, and that’s starting to pay dividends with more game‑time for Saints.

"Importantly, there’s still plenty of growth left in him.

“He’s a very diligent young man, he’s tough, and he cares hugely about what we’re trying to do here.

"Archie had perhaps fallen out of love with rugby for a period, but really enjoyed his time at Luctonians, and it was Jim Henry who initially noticed him there and flagged him to our coaching group.

"It’s a great reminder that there are still hidden gems out there, and with the right mindset and capability, players can make the step up.

“On the field, he’s excellent in the air and you’ve seen how effective he’s been in the PREM Rugby Cup recently.

"He’s always at it on the pitch – aggressive, competitive, and desperate to be involved – and those are qualities we really value.”