25-year-old Tonga’uiha, who at 6’5” and 130kg is one of the biggest players in the Saints squad, has signed a two-year extension to his current contract, meaning he will stay at Franklin’s Gardens until at least 2010.

Saints signed Tonga’uiha from neighbours Bedford Blues in 2006 and he made his debut against Worcester Warriors in 2006/07. Since then he has made 43 appearances and scored three tries. This season he has made an eye-catching impact on National League One during his 22 appearances and has rapidly become a fans’ favourite.

He missed several weeks of the season due to Rugby World Cup commitments, time well spent as he added four caps to his international tally.

Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder is delighted that Tonga’uiha has signed again and believes that there is a lot more potential for the player to develop.

“Soane is a powerful presence on the field,” he said. “He has an impact on the play whenever he touches the ball and his set-piece technique has improved over the past few months. Although he is a big man he is still young with plenty of time to develop his physique and game understanding further. He is keen to do so and will be an important member of the squad in the next few years.”

“I’m enjoying everything that Jim and Dorian have brought to the club,” said Tonga’uiha. “They’re great coaches and have been really keen to help me out. I’m still learning in my position and they are right behind me. I’m hoping that over the next few years we can get into the top six in the Premiership, where the club belongs. It will be hard next year but that ambition is realistic and I want to play a full part in getting the club there.”