Northampton Saints director of rugby Phil Dowson has praised the club's "valuable" partnership with Bedford Blues after an extension of their strategic deal was announced. The agreement, which began in 2020, sees the Prem Rugby and Champ Rugby clubs co-operate on a number of fronts, including the sharing of players and coaches. "We love the relationship with Bedford and the way the partnership works," said Dowson. "Giving our players the opportunity to experience Champ level rugby, within an environment where they are coached by both Saints and Bedford staff, is invaluable for our younger squad members." Bedford were beaten finalists in last season's Champ play-off final having finished second in the regular season.