Northampton Saints fly-half James Grayson has won this season’s Premiership Rugby Cup Breakthrough Player Award following a public vote.
Launched in 2012, the Breakthrough Player Award celebrates and recognises under-23 players who have stood out in the tournament – with previous winners including the likes of Jack Nowell, Jonny May, Tom Collins and Adam Radwan.
Using OPTA match statistics, a forward and back from each round were shortlisted, with a further two wildcards added for their performances across the whole competition.
Grayson has starred for the men in Black, Green and Gold throughout their Cup run, with the side marching into next month’s Final with a 59-33 triumph over Newcastle Falcons in the final four.
✅✅✅✅✅ starts
— Northampton Saints 😇 (@SaintsRugby) February 12, 2019
👟5️⃣7️⃣ points
🏉🏉 tries
🎁🎁 assists
💨1️⃣4️⃣2️⃣ metres made
🏅 MOTM v Bristol
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The 20-year-old was initially shortlisted after round one of the competition, following his performance in Northampton’s opening clash – a 51-24 victory over Bristol Bears.
In one hour exactly on the pitch Grayson kicked six goals and crossed for a try for a 19-point haul, assisting another score in the process. He was also strong in defence with only one back making more tackles than him in the competition’s opening weekend.
He also came alive in Saints’ ‘Derby Day’ win over Tigers, kicking six conversions and scoring an early try in a 47-20 win, before showing off his skills from the tee once again in the semi-final with seven conversions helping to see off Newcastle at the Gardens.
In winning the public vote, Grayson will receive a Promaster Tough watch courtesy of Premiership Rugby partner Citizen, while Gilbert will supply £1,000 worth of kit to a grassroots club of his choice.
Worcester Warriors’ Ted Hill finished second in the voting, while Tom Willis of Wasps was third.
Tickets are now available for this season’s Premiership Rugby Cup final at Franklin’s Gardens, with Northampton Saints taking on Saracens. Prices start from £15 for adults and £10 for juniors – to be part of this unforgettable occasion please CLICK HERE.
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