Wales flanker James Botham signs long-term contract with Cardiff

Cardiff have announced that Wales flanker James Botham has signed a long-term contract with the Welsh province.

Botham joined the Cardiff academy in 2016 and made his first team debut in the Anglo-Welsh Cup during the 2018/19 season. He has overall made 51 appearances for Cardiff but has been hampered by injuries in the ongoing campaign.

“I always wanted to play in Wales and with Cardiff being my first and only club, it’s great to be able to sign another contract here," he told Cardiff's official website.

“I am settled here in Cardiff and in terms of rugby it’s great to see so many young, talented player also signing new contracts as we build for the future.

“We have a lot of potential in this group and I feel like we’ve shown that this season, as well has how much we want to play for each other, the club and the supporters. So I am really excited to see what we can do as a team next year.

“However, there is still plenty of rugby to be played this season and I’m really pleased to be back fit and in contention. We are all looking forward to the next few weeks and having a strong finish to the current campaign.”

Cardiff head coach Matt Sherratt is delighted with Botham remaining committed to the club.

“He has been unfortunate with injuries this season but he is back fit and available and we are all seeing him back in a Cardiff jersey this season and beyond," said Sheratt.

“He is already a key player for us but I have no doubt that he can get even better in our environment."