Charlie Hodgson to join Saracens

Saracens have confirmed that England fly-half Charlie Hodgson is to join them on a long-term deal from the start of next season.

The 30-year-old had made clear his intentions to leave current club Sale after 11 seasons with the Sharks and Saracens were one of the clubs he had been linked with.

The London outfit have wasted little time in sealing the switch and Hodgson, who has won 34 England caps and toured New Zealand with the Lions in 2005, told the Saracens website: "I am excited to be joining a club now recognised as the most ambitious and player-friendly in the Premiership.

"Saracens have great people and great plans - there really is something special happening in north London, and I'm looking forward to being part of it."