Paul Hodgson will make the move to Sixways next season
England Saxon and london Irish scrum-half Paul Hodgson has signed a three year contract with Worcester Warriors.
Hodgson, who is currently part of the Saxons EPS squad and has made nine test appearances for England, will make the move to Sixways on a three-year deal from the start of next season.
Known as ‘Dodge’ because of his sidestepping skills, Epsom-born Hodgson has topped over a century of Premiership appearances in his career and played over 150 games for London Irish. The hugely talented scrum-half joined Irish from Bristol in 2004, having represented England at U18 and U21 level.
A quick, compact player, he represented England Sevens before winning his first full cap against Ireland during the 2008 Six Nations. He enjoyed further international recognition during England’s summer series against Argentina in 2009 and started the first three games of the 2010 Six Nations.
The 29-year-old has also impressed for England Saxons on many occasions, helping guide them to triumph in the Churchill Cup at Sixways in 2011 and also featuring in recent games with Ireland Wolfhounds and Scotland A.
Head Coach Richard Hill said: “Paul is a hugely competitive, positive and enthusiastic player who has a fantastic attitude; he has huge drive to win at absolutely everything he does.
“He is a scrum half who is lively around the park, knows how to control a game and puts his body on the line for the good of the team. He is a great character to have on the field and I know his enthusiasm will be infectious and will impact on those around him.
“We are determined to only bring people to the Warriors who will give 100 percent in every game they play and will improve our squad. Paul will do just that and has the work ethic and winning mentality to push the club forward.”
Hodgson said: “Worcester Warriors are an ambitious club with a strong coaching set-up and really developing playing squad. After meeting with Richard Hill I truly understood the aspirations of the club and I’m looking forward to playing my part in that development.
“I have thoroughly my eight years at London Irish and I have been lucky enough to play with some fantastic team-mates and under a great management team. The support from the fans has always been amazing. I am excited by the rest of the season at London Irish and totally focused on helping the team move forward in the Aviva Premiership and make the end of season play-offs.”