Cardiff Rugby are delighted to confirm James Botham has signed a new contract to remain at the Arms Park.
The versatile back-row star had options away from Wales but has pledged his future to Blue & Black following an impressive Six Nations campaign.
Botham is the latest player to sign a new deal at the Arms Park and follows in the footsteps of back-row partner Alex Mann.
And the 28-year-old is excited by the future at Cardiff and is determined to continue building both as an individual and collective.
He said: “I’m really pleased to be staying at Cardiff. This is home and it’s always a massive privilege to pull on the Blue & Black, particularly at the Arms Park.
“We have had a good season so far, there is still plenty to play for this season and just generally speaking I am really encouraged by the direction this group of players and coaches is heading.
“There is a huge amount of talent, plenty of competition and a real hunger to keep driving forward.
“On a personal level, I am just happy to have had an injury free run and been able to show what I am capable of both for Cardiff and at international level.
“There is plenty more to come and I am excited by what the future holds.”
Since joining the club’s academy out of Sedbergh School in Cumbria, Botham has worked his way through the Arms Park system to establish himself as a first team regular and Wales international.
With the ability to perform at the highest level across the back-row, Botham has now made 78 first team appearances and starts tomorrow night against Hollywoodbets Sharks following a standout Championship for Wales.
Corniel van Zyl added: “It’s great to keep Jim at Cardiff. He made a big impact during the Six Nations, coming in and putting in some impressive performances on the back of his run of form and fitness for Cardiff.
“He has an exceptional athletic ability and always embraces the physical challenge. He has a massive engine, a very good skillset and is very handy right across the pitch.
“He is really deep rooted in the club and contributes a lot off the pitch. He is someone who always looks out for his mates and people at the club.
“So I’m excited for his future here and he will be a really important figure for us.”