-
South African scrum-half Nic Groom will join Northampton Saints from Stormers in time for the start of next season
-
The 26-year-old has won the Currie Cup twice with Western Province and made more than 50 appearances for Stormers
-
“Leaving Cape Town and the Stormers is going to be tough and a big change,” said Groom
Northampton have confirmed the signing of scrum-half Nic Groom from Cape Town-based Super Rugby side The Stormers for next season.
The 26-year-old double Currie Cup winner, who has also played in 59 Currie Cup matches for Western Province, has spent his entire professional career at Newlands having come through the Western Province Rugby Institute.
Groom said that while it will be tough to leave, he is looking forward to the challenge that awaits him in the East Midlands.
Groom said: “I’m extremely excited to be joining up with Northampton next season. It’s a top club with a proud history and personally it’s a big honour to sign with them.
“I’m hoping to continue growing as a player and as a person and to contribute to what will hopefully be a very successful period at the club.
“Leaving Cape Town and the Stormers is going to be tough and a big change, but I’m looking forward to embracing new experiences both on and off the field. I have many happy memories playing in Cape Town; it’s where it all started for me.
“I’ve been here my whole career and I’m so thankful for everyone who has played a role in my journey so far. The coaches, players as well as the passionate fans will always have a special place in my heart.”
Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder says that Groom has the abilities to succeed in the Aviva Premiership.
“Nic is a talented player and we believe he will be a great addition to our squad next season,” he said.
“He has shown over the last few years that he has the ability to manage a game and to captain and lead a team.
“He has a lot of experience in Super Rugby, coming up against some of the world’s best players every week, and this will be invaluable as he competes for the scrum-half position with Lee Dickson and Tom Kessell.”