Northampton Saints promote Jim Henry to defence coach

Northampton Saints have promoted Jim Henry to the role of defence coach for the 2026-27 season, replacing Lee Radford, who has departed to take a full-time position with the Scotland national team. Henry, who had been serving as the club's forwards transition coach, steps into the role after gaining significant experience through the club's strategic partnership with Bedford Blues.

Henry joined Saints ahead of the 2022-23 campaign after coaching at Loughborough University. During his time at Franklin's Gardens, he worked closely with the club's hookers and lineout operation, took responsibility for the breakdown, and more recently led the defensive programme during Premiership Rugby Cup campaigns. As part of the partnership with Bedford Blues, he also served as defence coach for the Championship side, helping them reach the league final last season.

"I'm delighted to have this opportunity at Saints," Henry said. "This is a prestigious club with an outstanding coaching group and an incredibly talented playing squad. It's a role I've been working towards over the last few seasons. I've been fortunate to work closely alongside Radders [Lee Radford] and take on defensive...