Ed Prowse, 25, has established himself as a first-team player for Northampton Saints, two years after being informed by director of rugby Phil Dowson that his future as a tighthead prop was uncertain. Dowson suggested Prowse consider a switch to the second row, a position he had played in his youth.
Prowse, who had spent five years trying to succeed as a prop, embraced the change. He started in the Premiership final in June, which saw Saints regain their title, and was also recognised as the coaches' player of the season.
Prowse, whose playing weight is around 125kg, is now part of the heavier contingent of locks at Northampton, a role Dowson envisioned for him. He balances the 'heavy jobs' with the ability to move around the pitch, aligning with the club's emphasis on speed and ball skills.