PREMIERSHIP leaders Northampton Saints have agreed a deal with Cornish Pirates scrum-half Tom Kessell will join them next season.

The 25-year-old has impressed over the last couple of seasons at the Mennaye and was widely tipped to be picked up by a club at the highest level.

He has also agreed a short-term deal with fellow Greene King IPA Championship side Bristol, but has been loaned back immediately to the Pirates. 

Speaking about the Premiership move, Kessell said: "Joining the Saints is a fantastic opportunity for me.

"I'm really looking forward to working with the calibre of players that the club's already got.

"Hopefully I'll be able to develop as a work in progress, take any opportunity that I can get, and be the best that I can."

Saints director of rugby Jim Mallinder said he believes Kessell has the ability to make an impact at the top level of the sport.

"Tom has shown great promise in the Championship and has had his performances recognised with selection for the team that played Canada last year," he said.

"We believe that he has the potential to perform in the Aviva Premiership and in Europe and are looking forward to seeing him develop here at Franklin's Gardens.

Having played in the club's mini rugby section, Hayle-born Kessell has been a part of the Pirates' make-up since 1995, building his way through the ranks.

Before signing professionally at the Mennaye, he played at Plymouth Albion and in November was part of the Championship XV who beat Canada.

Ian Davies, the Pirates' director of rugby, said: "It's great news for Tom that he has secured a contract with Northampton.

"His attitude and application in both training and in matches is first rate so he fully deserves this opportunity.

"Just to illustrate how highly Tom is thought off he has also agreed a short term contract with Bristol as they gear up for the play-offs, but importantly for us he stays on board as a Pirate until our season's outcome is decided."