Next season will be all three players’ chance to prove they are ready for the step up to the main squad ahead of 2006/07.

In particular, it will be an important season for Grove as he has missed half of this year with a knee injury.

Academy director James Sinclair said: “All three have progressed this season and will play a key part in the Academy next season. Although Matt is recovering from a serious knee injury and will not be fit until Christmas, he had an outstanding start to the season and I have no doubt that a combination of our medical staff’s expertise and Matt’s desire and commitment will see him come back even stronger.

“Paul has been knocking on the Saints door all season and his leadership skills will be crucial next year. I am looking forward to seeing him take his game to another level and to add to his England U21s caps starting with the World Championships in Argentina this summer.

“Ben will be keen to impress next year and will be hoping to run the show at fly-half for the Wanderers come September.”

Diggin, Grove and Patston will be joined by centre Adam Barnard, No 8 Mark Hopley, prop Charlie Beech and flanker Jamie Supple to make up the gold group of next year’s Academy. Further new Academy players will be announced shortly.