Director of rugby Budge Pountney said: “Frank has been fantastic for this club. His attitude and belief rubs off on all the players and coaches and, as such, makes him a very valuable member of the coaching staff.

“We are delighted he and his family will be with us for at least another two years minimum. We have only seen the tip of the iceberg in terms of the development of the players through Frank’s coaching and we are looking forward to Frank realising the full potential of our players.”

Ponissi, who is Australian by birth but Italian by heritage, said: “The first 18 months of my time with Saints were difficult and tough, but I have really enjoyed the last six months. There is a big future here and I am very excited about what can be done during the next two years. I am really glad to be a part of it.”