James Botham


James Botham is a Welsh rugby union player who plays for Cardiff Blues as a flanker. He is a Wales under-20 international.

Early life

The grandson of all-round cricketer Sir Ian Botham, James was born in Cardiff whilst his father Liam Botham was playing for Cardiff RFC as a wing. After his father moved to Newcastle Falcons for the 2000/1 season, James was brought up and educated in Cumbria.

Club career

James joined the Cardiff Blues academy in 2016, and in the 2018/19 season started making appearances for the senior team, initially in the Anglo-Welsh Cup, and then debuted in the Pro14 against Connacht Rugby. Botham signed his first professional contract with the Blue's in March 2019.

International career

Botham made his debut for Wales under-18 on 25 March 2016 against Scotland under-18 at St. Helen's Rugby and Cricket Ground, Swansea, scoring a try in the 31-30 victory. He has since made his debut for the Wales under-20 squad.