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Smith: New Saints deal

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• Ben Broster

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Northampton prop Tom Smith has signed a new contract extension for next season's return to the Guinness Premiership, while the club have also captured Wales international forward Ben Broster.

The Saints were crowned National League One champions this season to secure an immediate return to the top-flight after relegation in 2007.

36-year-old Smith, a former Scotland and Lions prop, has now signed on for an eighth season at Franklins Gardens.

"Staying at Northampton was an easy decision," said Smith, who joined from French side Brive in 2001.

"It is a club where I have been for a long time, and a club for which I have a lot of affection."

Welsh signing

Northampton's preparations for their Guinness Premiership return are well underway and they have added to their squad by signing Ben Broster from Llanelli Scarlets.

Broster was won two caps for Wales, on their 2005 North American tour, and played for Saracens before moving to Llanelli.

Northampton rugby director Jim Mallinder said the addition of another top front-row forward was a big plus for the Saints squad.

"The front-row is an area of the squad where you cannot have too much depth," said Mallinder.

"Tom's quality was apparent throughout last season. He had a fantastic campaign and he also has plenty of experience, which is another important commodity in the Premiership.

"Ben is an under-rated player who has proved his worth at the highest level.

"He is good in the tight, mobile around the park and also has international experience at all age groups."