Worcester Warriors have today announced that England Sevens star Matt Cox and all-action centre Greg King – both products of the club’s successful Academy system – have signed new deals to remain at Sixways Stadium.
Cox has agreed a new two-year deal to commit his future to Warriors while King has agreed a one-year extension to remain at the Guinness Premiership club.
Flanker Cox made a first team try-scoring debut last April against London Wasps and has since gone on to make 15 senor appearances for Mike Ruddock’s men.
The 21-year-old Redditch-born back row, who was originally involved with Woodrush RFC, has also impressed on the international stage since making his England Under 19 debut as a 17-year-old in 2006 before going on to help his country win the Home Unions Under 18s tournament.
Cox, who first got involved with Warriors when he was 15, appeared at open-side for England in the successful 2008 U20 Six Nations campaign, starting all five games and scoring two tries, and has also played England Sevens.
Powerful centre King, 21, made his full Guinness Premiership debut against Harlequins earlier this month as has impressed for Warriors in the Guinness A League with his strong running and strength in the tackle.
Academy product King, who is nearing the end of his first full-time season with the club following the completion of his studies at Hartpury College, has represented England at Under 18 (AER), Under 19 and Under 20 level.
“I’m pleased to announce that two outstanding young prospects have committed their future to Warriors,” said Director of Rugby Mike Ruddock.
“Matt is a former England Under-20 international and we’re delighted with the news that he has signed as he has a big future ahead of him.
“He’s already made 15 appearances for the Warriors and has impressed during that time with his athleticism, mobility and skilful approach.
“Unfortunately Matt is recovering at this time from a shoulder operation, however, he is well ahead of schedule and will be ready to start the new season leaner, stronger and fitter than he was last season.
“Greg has also pledged his future to the club and we’re delighted with that as he is an all-action centre,” added Ruddock.
“He runs extremely hard and incredibly strongly at the game line and he tackles above his weight and size.
“Greg made his full debut at Harlequins earlier this season and he has been selected for the travelling party for the semi-final against Bourgoin. This highlights his potential and we expect great things from him next season.”