Northampton Saints flanker Phil Dowson has agreed to join Championship side Worcester Warriors at the end of the season.

The 33-year-old has made nearly 180 appearances for the Saints during his six years with the Aviva Premiership champions.

Dowson has won seven caps for England since 2012.

"We are continuing to build a side which can progress season after season," Worcester coach Dean Ryan told the club's official website. "To be able to attract a player of Phil's calibre to be at the centre of that journey is a huge coup for the club.

"Phil's leadership qualities have been a crucial component of the success Northampton have experienced in recent seasons and his presence at Sixways will be huge for the development of this young side."

Dowson joined Northampton from Newcastle Falcons back in 2009.