27 year-old Rudzki is equally at home in both the second and back rows and his 6ft 5inch, 17st 9lb frame will add ballast to Saints’ forward effort.

He joins Northampton from French Top 14 side Bayonne and has signed a one-year contract. Rudzki has also played for Pau and Harlequins and represented England U21.

“Karl is a rugged, hard and abrasive player whose experience in France adds strength to our squad for the coming season,” said Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder. “He’s also a versatile player and his ability in the lineout will increase our options in a crucial aspect of the game.”