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‘It’s been seamless… I’m over the moon’: JAMES PATER, Northampton’s 19-year-old ‘Slim Reaper’ on his rapid rise into the first team, taking Jonny Wilkinson’s advice and how he’s trying to bulk up

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW BY NIK SIMON: When James Pater was 15, his team-mates at Shelford RFC clubbed together to bid for a training session with Jonny Wilkinson in a charity auction.

By NIK SIMON · Daily Mail

Published: Saturday, 24 October 2026 at 1:00 AM

Key Things to Know

Northampton full-back James Pater discussed his rapid first-team rise, Jonny Wilkinson's mentorship, and bulking up.
The 19-year-old deferred university studies at Bath after securing a full-time professional rugby contract with Northampton.
Pater is contending for an England A call-up following an impressive start highlighted by an opening-day hat-trick.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Northampton Saints full-back James Pater has reflected on his breakthrough into senior rugby, crediting advice from Jonny Wilkinson during a teenage training session for shaping his composure. The 19-year-old deferred an economics degree at the University of Bath to pursue a professional career, quickly establishing himself as Northampton's starting number 15 following the departure of George Furbank to Harlequins.

Nicknamed 'The Slim Reaper' by teammate Chunya Munga due to his rangy 86kg frame, Pater scored a hat-trick in the Premiership opener and is pushing for an England A call-up. Ahead of the East Midlands derby against Leicester Tigers, Pater noted he is actively working with club nutritionists to add weight while managing the physical demands of senior rugby.

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