Doncaster Knights sign Northampton Saints scrum half James Mitchell

James Mitchell in action for Northampton Saints in the Heineken Champions Cup. Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images

The 25-year-old featured for the Saints in the Premiership and Champions Cup last season.

He has also had spells with Connacht, Sale Sharks and represented at England at junior level.

Knights head coach Steve Boden said: “James comes with a wealth of experience despite his young age having played first grade rugby at Northampton, Connacht and Sale.

“He has an excellent skillset, he is strong and succinct communicator and has the ability to keep the game at a high tempo.

“I’m really looking forward to seeing how James integrates as a Knight and drives competition in a key position with Sam [Pocklington] and Reiss [Cullen].”

Mitchell told Knights’ official website: “After speaking to Steve Boden about Doncaster and where he wants the club to go next season it was an easy decision for me to sign.

“I feel like Doncaster will be a great place to play rugby next year and the style of rugby we are looking to play suits me and my game.

“I’m really excited to play for a club with such potential and hopefully I can become a real asset for the Knights. I’d also like to thank the Doncaster board for being very supportive during this uncertain time.”