‘After being in lockdown, I can’t wait to get stuck in’
TRAILFINDERS’ NEW SIGNING FROM NORTHAMPTON SAINTS LOOKING FORWARD TO A NEW CHALLENGE IN WEST LONDON
BUSY Ealing Trailfinders have signed Fraser Strachan from Northampton Saints for the 2020/21 season.
The centre is a product of the academy at Franklin’s Gardens and has made four appearances for the first team.
He also has plenty of experience in the Championship after a loan spell at Bedford Blues, which saw him come up against the Trailfinders on multiple occasions, and obviously catching the eye of Ealing’s director of rugby, Ben Ward, with his performances.
The 21-year-old signed with the Saints in 2017 and has had plenty of success for the Wanderers in the midfield.
He played in the 2017 A League Premiership final and he continued to impress the following season, making another appearance in their third consecutive A League final, in which they beat Exeter Braves 31-21.
He has also been recognised on the international front, initially playing through the age groups with Scotland before switching to represent England at U18 level.
With the likes of Pat Howard, Jack Tovey and David Johnston all remaining at Trailfinders Sports Club, Strachan will have plenty of competition in the midfield for the Green & Whites.
The centre is looking forward to a new challenge in west London.
He said: “After being in lockdown for so long, I’m looking forward to kicking off a new season with an exciting squad. The club seem very ambitious and I can’t wait to get stuck in.”
Ward is pleased to add Strachan to the squad for the upcoming campaign.
“Fraser is someone who has always impressed us when playing for Bedford and we feel that he can fulfil his potential here at Ealing Trailfinders,” he said.
“He still has plenty to learn at just 21 years old, but he has played a lot of rugby and there is no doubt that he will develop into a top player for us.”
Meanwhile, Ealing have also snapped up Charlie Walker on a long-term deal.
The flying winger, who has won the Premiership with Harlequins, joins from Zebre in the Pro 14 after a spell in Italy and is a hugely exciting addition to the Trailfinders squad.
Walker made 96 appearances during his time at the Twickenham Stoop, and scored 44 tries in eight seasons with Quins.
The 27-year-old, who is known for his lightning pace, has been with Zebre for the last year, but will now return to England for a new challenge at Trailfinders Sports Club.
On the international front he gained nine caps for England U20s, and also had a spell with England 7s including playing at the famous Hong Kong tournament.
Ward is pleased to add a player of Walker’s calibre to the group.
“Charlie is someone who we have known for a long time and I am delighted that he chose to join us,” he said.
“He has the ability to change a game and make something out of nothing. He runs good lines and can play across the back three. He is a really good age but will also bring a lot of experience to the squad.
“We were due to have him on loan a number of years ago but he ended up breaking in to the first team at Harlequins. I’m delighted that he will finally put on an Ealing Trailfinders shirt.”