Chris Ashton

Rarely has the announcement of a player signing created such a stir as that of Chris Ashton. When news of Chris’s signing broke in March rugby league watchers were holding their heads in their hands. That’s because the Wigan Warrior had been tipped for stardom in the 13 a-side code and had already played for England while a teenager. Chris has taken the Super League by storm since his debut in the final game at Huddersfield in 2005 aged only 18. Last season he was the first-choice full-back, making 29 appearances and scoring 15 tries. He was also voted Wigan’s Player of the Season in 2006.

His ability to find the try line and to be in the right place at the right time to receive the final pass has continued since his arrival at Franklin's Gardens in the last week of August. With his first touch of the ball he scored a try in the National League One opener against London Welsh, and in his next outing there was another try against Moseley. Sandwiched between these Saints appearances was another try for the Wanderers in his first full 80 minutes of union.

In the months since Chris has taken National League One by storm, scoring 25 tries in 20 appearances, including two four-try hauls against Rotherham and Sedgley Park. This form earned him a call-up to the England Saxons squad selected in January 2008.