Rory Hutchinson: Northampton Saints centre extends contract with club

Scotland centre Rory Hutchinson has extended his contract with Northampton Saints beyond the end of this season.

The 28-year-old has scored 32 tries in 150 appearances for Saints after coming through the club's academy.

But his only try for the Premiership leaders this season came in a 42-36 win at Exeter in January.

"The most important thing for me for this next period at the club is winning some silverware," Hutchinson told the club website.

"When I look back on my career in 20 years' time, I don't want there to be any 'could have' or 'should have' moments. So, it's really important with the team that we have now, we look to win trophies and speak with our actions on the pitch."

Northampton are seven points clear at the top of the table with six games remaining before the play-offs.

They will play Sale Sharks in a friendly on Friday, prior to recommencing competitive action away to Bristol Bears seven days later.

Director of rugby Phil Dowson said Hutchinson's game had reached a new level this season because of the input of defence coach Lee Radford.

"He's got a huge differential with his game in how he is able to move the ball, to see space and put people into it," he said.

"Hutch has applied himself hugely and Lee coming into our environment has helped him, with a new set of eyes looking at what he's doing and pushing him to be better.

"He has also developed physically, being a bit heavier and a bit stronger, which you can see in his collision work this season."

Hutchinson's Scotland team-mate Elliot Millar Mills agreed a new contract with Saints on Tuesday.