Ken Pisi to leave Franklin’s Gardens after seven years

Northampton Saints wing Ken Pisi will bring to an end a seven-year stay at Franklin’s Gardens at the end of the season.

The Samoa international arrived at the Premiership club in 2012 from New Zealand provincial side North Harbour, and has made 138 appearances during his time in the East Midlands.

Pisi became a favourite among the Saints faithful as part of the team which reached back-to-back league finals in 2013 and 2014, lifting the Premiership trophy at the second attempt.

With 34 tries in Black, Green and Gold colours, the 30-year-old paid thanks to all who had made his time in Northampton ‘so special’.

“I’m very proud to have spent the majority of my career playing for Northampton Saints in front of this great crowd at Franklin’s Gardens,” Pisi said.

“When I first came over, I didn’t know what to expect, but I have felt welcomed by the amazing rugby community here in Northampton ever since I first pulled on a black, green and gold jersey.

“In seven seasons as a Saint I have been blessed enough to win some silverware, make lifelong usos (brothers) and create many unbelievable memories which I’ll always treasure.

“So my thanks go to all my team-mates, coaches, trainers and physios, as well as the club’s supporters, for making my time here so special.

“For now I’m really focused on helping the squad finish this season as strongly as possible, and I wish everyone here the best for the future.”

Forming a double-act with brother George for club and country over the years, the next destination for Ken has yet to be revealed.

Saints defence coach Alan Dickens paid homage to a player who embodied the ethos of the club.

“It’s always hard to pick out individuals within a rugby squad, but Ken has always stood out at this club as a player and as a person,” said Dickens.

“He was almost ever-present throughout one of the most successful periods of the club’s history, and remains an extremely popular player within our squad.

“He’s a wonderful person and a shining example of what it means to be a Northampton Saint, so we wish him every success and happiness for the future.”

The list of players set to exit the Premiership play-off chasers this summer includes Luther Burrell, Jamal Ford-Robinson, Henry Taylor, Andrew Kellaway, Nafi Tuitavake and Matt Worley.