All Blacks prop Owen Franks is set to join English Premiership club Northampton after this year’s World Cup.

The double World Cup winner will link up at the Saints with brother Ben, bringing an end to a 106 Test-cap career with New Zealand.

Franks joins a number of All Blacks who have begun to pursue opportunities abroad, despite the fact New Zealand Rugby have a policy of not selecting overseas-based players.

‘The Crusaders, All Blacks and Canterbury Rugby have been a big part of my life and my family’s lives for more than a decade now, and I’m grateful for every opportunity I’ve had to live my dream in those jerseys,’ Franks said.

‘New Zealand will always be home, but Northampton presents a great opportunity for me to test myself in a new rugby environment, and reconnect with family there.’

Photo: Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images