Northampton sign trialist Aaron Hinkley and Alfie Petch from Exeter

Northampton Saints have signed trialist Aaron Hinkley and Alfie Petch from Exeter Chiefs.

The former England age group internationals have signed ahead of the 2022/23 season.

23-year-old Hinkley has made two appearances for Northampton against Harlequins and Saracens last season.

The highly-rated flanker began his career in Gloucester‘s academy set-up in 2017 before moving to Exeter Chiefs three years later. After limited opportunities at Sandy Park, he went on trial at Northampton.

Saints’ incoming Director of Rugby Phil Dowson told the club website: “Aaron’s been really impressive ever since he arrived here on a trial,” he said.

“He’s a high-energy, aggressive player who is really good over the ball – as we’ve seen in the matches he’s played so far.

“One of his big points of difference is his speed, and the edge he brings when he plays. We wanted to get him inside our environment on trial first to see what he’s about and how he could fit into our group, and he’s worked hard throughout his time with us.

“It speaks volumes about his character that – after such a long time away from playing any competitive rugby – he was able to come into the side in a crucial Premiership match and play at an outstanding level, so we think the ceiling is high for him and we’re excited to sign him up on a long-term deal.”

Hinkley added: “I’m buzzing to sign on at Saints long-term having been at the Club for a few months now. It’s been a fantastic environment to come into, and I’m really enjoying playing at Franklin’s Gardens under this coaching group.”

Meanwhile, 22-year-old tighthead prop Petch joined Exeter’s academy at the age of 14 before progressing into the club’s Under-18s line-up.

The 128kg forward made his first-team debut during the 2018/19 season.

Last season, Petch played 23-times for Cornish Pirates. Incoming boss Dowson believes the front-rower will complement Saints’ existing group of tightheads.

Dowson said: “The Championship is a fantastic breeding ground for young props and Alfie impressed us with his natural strength, power, and scrummaging ability.

“He’s got skill around the park too, so he’s not a one-trick pony, but first and foremost he loves scrummaging and wants to better himself to see how far he can go – which is music to [Scrum Coach] Matt Ferguson’s ears.

“Alfie has spent all his life in the West Country, so he’s excited to move up to Northampton for a fresh start. He loved playing week-in, week-out for Cornish Pirates and that desire to get on the pitch and build his experience was just what we were looking for.”

“I’m really excited about a new challenge in Northampton and getting stuck in with all the boys there,” added Petch. “It’s a young squad of talented players up at Saints, with an impressive coaching group too – I’m also very grateful to Alan Paver at Cornish Pirates for helping me so much this season.

“I really believe Northampton will be consistent Premiership contenders in the years ahead, so I can’t wait to get started.”