Best joins Saints

Ireland flanker Neil Best has joined the exodus from Ulster by agreeing a two-year contract with Northampton.

Best will move to Saints, who sit at the summit of National League One and are in pole position for an immediate return to the Guinness Premiership, during the summer.

The 28-year-old will link up with fellow Ulster forward Roger Wilson at Franklin's Gardens, while Wallaby lock Justin Harrison will switch from Ravenhill to Bath next season.

Best, renowned for his ferocious tackling, insists he is looking forward to testing himself in the Premiership.

"I've played against English teams and I don't have any problem with people who are bigger than me running at me. I enjoy that." he said.

"The physical aspect will be different because it is so relentless but I'm looking forward to that.

"The standard of the competition is a step up from the Magners League and this is the perfect time in my career to take it to the next level."