SCRUM-HALF Alex Day has vowed to seize his big opportunity after sealing a dream move to Premiership giants Saracens.

The 26-year-old former Colchester Rugby Club player has penned a two-year deal with the Allianz Park outfit, joining from Cornish Pirates.

Day, who grew up in Dovercourt, will join up with his new team-mates when they report back for pre-season training in early July.

After moving through the age groups at Colchester, he started his professional career with Northampton Saints and spent four years at Franklin’s Gardens.

However, he found his first-team opportunities limited and decided to drop a level to join Championship side Cornish Pirates.

Now, after four years in the South-West, playing the likes of Bristol and London Irish, he is back at the top table of domestic rugby and cannot wait to get started with Saracens.

“It was always my goal to play for a Premiership club,” he said.

“A couple of other sides made contact but when I knew Saracens were interested, it became an easy decision and one I jumped at. They’re one of the best clubs in Europe.

“It hasn’t fully sunk in yet and I can’t wait to get stuck in.

“I wouldn’t say I’m nervous. I’ve been in that kind of environment before so it’s not new to me.

“More than anything, I’m just excited because this is something I’ve worked very hard for.

“There was a point when I wondered if the chance had passed me by and whether I’d get another opportunity like this.

“But I knew early in the season that I was being watched, which gave me added incentive.

“Saracens couldn’t officially speak to me until the start of the year.

“That’s when everything really kicked off and the deal was done.

“To get this opportunity is brilliant and I’ve already received a hand-written letter from the owner, welcoming me to the club.”

Day, a former pupil at Harwich’s Mayflower Primary School, made the tough decision to leave Northampton – having spent two within the academy and two with the senior set-up - and join the Pirates because he found his game-time limited at Franklin’s Gardens.

He said people questioned his decision to drop down to the second tier of English rugby.

However, he believes the move has been vindicated by his move to Saracens.

“It was a step down but I knew I’d play lots of games for the Pirates,” said Day, who has already bought a house with his girlfriend near St Albans, close to Saracens’ base.

“In the space of four years, I played more than 100 matches.

“It was great experience for me and now I’m very excited to get started at Saracens.

“It’s a new environment and a fresh start. Hopefully I’ll be there for a while.

“I’m confident in my ability and have nothing to lose.

“I’m going to give it my best shot and enjoy the experience.

“I’ve got some time off and am going to make the most of it, chilling out with my family.”