Planet Rugby

Johnston and Vunipola join Saracens

14th January 2013 16:23

wasps v sale Billy Vunipola

New signing: Billy Vunipola

Saracens have announced the signings of Harlequins prop James Johnston and Wasps number eight Billy Vunipola.

Samoan international Johnston follows in the footsteps of his brother Census who previously played for the club, whilst Vunipola links up with brother Mako and is set to train with England in the coming weeks.

The club have also announced 12 contract extensions ahead of next season, including exciting prospect Will Fraser.

"Saracens is pleased to announce a dozen players have committed their future to the club," said a club statement.

"The following players have seen something special happening in north London and agreed new contracts: Richard Wigglesworth, Mako Vunipola, David Strettle, Eoin Sherriff, Will Fraser, Ben Spencer, Nils Mordt, Duncan Taylor, Ben Ransom and James Short.

"In addition James Johnston, tighthead prop, and Billy Vunipola, the No.8, have both signed long-term contracts with Saracens."

Comments

melkdave says...

Good singings for Saracens ,though i expect Quins and Wasps arnt happy to lose players with such potential,and class.At least they are staying in England instead of heading to France ,so not bad news for England at least.

Posted 17:59 14th January 2013

Tvaddict says...

Wow! Two huge signings for Saracens! Johnston is an international class 3 that most countries would love to have the luxury to choose. It's sad he's leaving the club that's developed him but I guess that's the modern game for you. Vunipola is a brilliant prospect and being at Saracens should help develop his technical game more. A back row of Kruis, Fraiser, and Vunipola is a fearsome prospect!

All in all, shame for Wasps and Harlequins but fantastic for Saracens.

Posted 17:56 14th January 2013

boksmashoffice says...

how many players have saracens produced? A bit of a joke imo. Do and Man City and buy a title.

Posted 17:48 14th January 2013

victorr says...

What a step back for JJ. Massive loss for the mighty quins. From the reaction he gave us after the Connacht game at the stoop but the lure of a multiple home grounds and 5 thousand fans must have won him over. Massive job to replace him. Enjoy the 5 thousand compared to the 13 thousand regulars.

Posted 17:27 14th January 2013

ramm83 says...

James Johnston is going to be a massive loss to Quins!! Damn it!

Posted 17:21 14th January 2013

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