Saracens captain Brad Barritt has signed a short-term contract extension until the end of 2019-20, which will be his final season at the club.
The 33-year-old has ensured that he will be available for the rest of Saracens’ Premiership campaign and for their European Champions Cup quarter-final as he looks to finish his 12-year career on a high.
Since arriving in north London in late 2008, Barritt has become a cornerstone of the Saracens team, making a current total of 257 appearances for the English side.
The centre has won five Premiership titles – including the team’s first domestic trophy in 2011 – as well as three European titles. Since taking over as captain in 2015, he has led Saracens to three Premiership titles and all of their European trophy wins.
? @Saracens has been my home & family for 12 years.
All good things, have to come to an end. As I’ve decided that the 19/20 season, will be my last as a Saracen. However, I’m delighted to have extended my stay to defend our @ChampionsCup title & finish the @premrugby season. pic.twitter.com/6psyHfdz7n— Brad Barritt (@bradbarritt) June 29, 2020
Having now ensured the chance to complete one final chapter as a Saracen, Barritt insists he is delighted to have the opportunity to sign off in a positive way.
‘I’m excited and delighted to announce that I’ve signed a contract extension until the end of the 2019-20 season,’ Barritt said. ‘But I’m also sadly going to announce that this will be my last season with Saracens. I have had an incredible stay here of 12 years.
‘There have been so many memories, so many experiences, but sadly all good things must come to an end. I’m immensely excited to finish off the season. To still have the Champions Cup as a goal and focus point for us is immensely exciting.
‘I also want to hopefully sign off on a positive note and enjoy these last few months as a Saracen.’
Saracens director of rugby Mark McCall welcomed the news of Barritt’s extension.
‘Brad’s agreement to stay with the club until the conclusion of the ’19/20 season is outstanding news,’ McCall said.
‘He has been a central figure in the development of our club for more than a decade and a truly great captain for the last five years. We are delighted that Brad will have the opportunity to end his time with us in the manner he so richly deserves.’
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Photo: Dan Mullan/Getty Images
