Gallagher Premiership Rugby club Saracens has acquired a 50 per cent stake in Vitality Netball Superleague team Hertfordshire Mavericks.

As a result of the partnership – designed to "fuel the next phase of growth for both organisations" – the netball team has been renamed Saracens Mavericks.

The strategic move will see the clubs sharing resources and insight for elite player performance, access to a wider fanbase, commitment to community outreach programmes and the integration of key business functions.

According to Tim Hunt, commercial director at Saracens, the two clubs are "culturally aligned through their independent spirit".

“Netball is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK and we are excited to be joining forces with Mavericks," Hunt said.

"Part of our growth strategy is to collaborate with others that share our ethos and help widen our audience reach.

"To achieve this, the dual-priority is to create an environment where our elite teams continually strive for sporting excellence and to inspire our local communities to lead healthier, happier lives through the positive power of sport. Mavericks mirror our culture making them a perfect match for Saracens.”

Kathryn Ratnapala, director of netball for Saracens Mavericks, added: “This has been a fantastic opportunity to join forces with Saracens and continue to push to be the standout, ultimate franchise within Vitality Superleague.

"Saracens have proved to be role models and leaders in their field and merging with this high-performance culture and club is a great step forward for Mavericks.

"We would like to thank Benecos for their support for the last two years as we continue to work with them as our title sponsor this season.”

Mavericks will continue to play their home games at the Hertfordshire Sports Village in Hatfield.