After a whirlwind 2023/24 campaign, Fraser Dingwall insists continuity has been the focus in preseason for Northampton Saints, and the English-capped centre stressed his desire to start this season as the men in Black, Green and Gold finished the last – with a win over Bath.
The curtain raiser for the campaign on Friday evening will see Bath host Northampton at the Rec, in a repeat of June’s Gallagher Premiership Final.
“There’s certainly a lot of pride in this fixture,” said Dingwall. “Not only because of last year; it’s a chance for new and emerging players to solidify their positions within the team after a really positive preseason.”
A week on from beating near-neighbours Bedford Blues at cinch Stadium at Franklin’s Gardens, Dingwall and Saints are keen to stick to their winning formula off the back of their Premiership success.
He said: “We’re proud of the way we play, and trying to defend the league title won’t affect our philosophy or DNA.
“We know we’re now the hunted, and will relish the opportunity to focus on ourselves and continue to produce good performances starting on Friday night.”
Fraser Dingwall
After the departure of some senior members of Saints’ squad over the summer, the 25-year-old will form part of this year’s fresh-look leadership team, led by new Club Captain George Furbank.
“I’ve known George for a long time as we came through the Academy together,” added Dingwall. “He’s an excellent leader and he captained the team really well on multiple occasions last year.
“We have a great group of young and enthusiastic players all keen to build on the last campaign, which hopefully eliminates any fear of complacency which can creep in at times like this.”
That’s our boy 🖤💚💛
— Northampton Saints 😇 (@SaintsRugby) February 10, 2024
A crucial first international try for @FraserDingwall_ as England beat Wales at Twickenham.
🏴 16 - 14 🏴 pic.twitter.com/tsjCqBPEkn
Having been a part of Saints’ pathway system since his teenage years, Dingwall’s performances in Black, Green and Gold last season provided him with his first senior England cap, as well as his first try in international colours.
Despite his landmark achievements across the last 12 months, the centre is only looking ahead to the next challenge.
He said: “Last year brought some incredible experiences, however, it’s only made me more driven to seek out more of the same.
“It’s cliché, but you’re always looking towards that next goal, and that hasn’t changed for me. I’m looking forward to improving my game and continuing to tick off some of my aspirations within rugby.”
