Bath Insist That Butch James Will Stay

Bath insist that Butch James is staying at the Recreation Ground despite the fly-half’s desire to resurrect his Test career with the Springboks ahead of the 2011 World Cup.

James, whose club contract has another two years to run, is wanted by the Natal Sharks but has been advised by Bath he will not be released early.

“He’s a Bath player and we want him to stay here,” said Nick Blofeld, the club’s chief executive, confirming the Sharks had expressed an interest in re-signing the 31-year-old. “He has said he would like to play for South Africa again and we would, of course, love to see him do that. But we believe he can do so from Bath, having done so in the past.”

James, suffering from a shoulder injury sustained against Worcester last month, joined Bath following the 2007 World Cup having played a key role in South Africa’s success.

His return from a long-term knee injury prompted a sharp improvement in Bath’s form and the coach, Martin Haag, is among those keen to retain him: “He’s instrumental to us and he’s not going anywhere.”

With thanks to the Guardian.co.uk