Courtney Lawes is likely to head to New Zealand with England and this means a second row berth may be up for grabs, with two from Craig, Christian Day, Mark Sorenson and fellow summer signing Samu Manoa in the mix, as well as Calum Clark who impressed when playing there last season.

"With Courtney away early in the season I'm hoping to get a chance, whether it's off the bench or even starting," Craig said. "That's for Jim and Dorian to decide though so I just need to try and impress and press on from there."

Part of his preparation has been his toughest pre-season to date and the 22-year-old from Leeds is seeing the results already.

"There's a lot of grafting going in from the boys and it's also a lot different from what I've been used to over the past few seasons. It's a good change, but the three sessions a day are a bit tougher than having a couple on Monday and Tuesday and then a day off. There's more volume of stuff but I'm certainly feeling the effects and feeling better for it."

The squad will be hoping to put their hard work into practice this Friday in their first friendly against Russia, the next step in readiness for the visit of Gloucester on September 4^th.

"It can be but it's a long old season and you're working hard all throughout it," he added. "The pre-season is about getting prepared for that but it will probably be nice to get a ball in our hands and do a bit less fitness."

Craig was speaking in an exclusive 'Meet The New Guys' blog for Saints TV, which can be viewed in full by clicking here.

Meanwhile, tickets remain available for the visit of Russia to Franklin's this Friday evening, with tickets costing just £12 and Season Ticket Holders enjoying free entry. Click here to book your seat at the Saints' first game of the new season.