Olver heads to Worcester

Worcester have captured the signing of talented young Northampton Saints fly-half Sam Olver, who will join the Warriors ahead of 2017/18.

The 22-year-old becomes the club's fifth signing ahead of next season, joining current team-mate Ethan Waller, Jersey duo Pierce Phillips and Simon Kerrod, and Wasps' Tom Howe in arriving.

Peterborough-born Olver earned a professional contract at Franklin's Gardens in March 2013 and has helped Northampton Wanderers to three Aviva A League finals in the last four seasons, having kicked 16 points in last Monday's final to help them defeat Gloucester United to win the 2016/17 title.

During his time at Saints, Olver has made 13 first-team appearances while also having spent time on dual registration at Birmingham Moseley, where he featured against Warriors in the 2014/15 Greene King IPA Championship. 

On the international stage, Olver has represented England U18s and also made four appearances for the U20s in the 2014 Six Nations, before helping them win the Junior World Championship later that year.

"Sam is a hungry young player who will provide further competition for the number ten jersey," said Worcester director of rugby Gary Gold.

"He has experience of working alongside some top-class fly-halves and we're looking forward to seeing how he develops under the resource and support he will receive here at Sixways."

Olver added: "I'm really looking forward to joining an exciting club with a big future. 

"It's a great opportunity for me to work with a quality coaching set-up and play with a young, growing team. 

"I really believe the squad is heading in the right direction and I just can't wait to get started."