Paul James extends Ospreys deal

The Rugby Paper Team

8 years ago

(Photo by Michael Steele / Getty Images)

Wales prop Paul James has extended his contract with the Ospreys to 2018.
The loosehead will be 36 by the time his new deal expires and on course to bring the curtain down on a career that began at Neath before the Ospreys merger in 2003.
James has since made almost 200 appearances for the Welsh region and revealed to the club’s website his satisfaction at staying at the Liberty Stadium.
“I’m very happy about signing a new contract with my home region. The Ospreys mean a lot to me and I’m enjoying being back home and being involved with a young squad that I think can do really well this season,” said James, who had a three-year spell with Bath and reached the Aviva Premiership final last year.
Looking forward to the season ahead the prop said: “The first couple of weeks will be massive for us. We’ve got two home games against Italian sides, and three away in Ireland, for the first five games, and if we can get off to a good start it will put us in a good position to build on for the rest of the season. It’s an exciting time for everybody and I’m just delighted to know that I’m going to be a part of it.”
James made his debut for Wales in 2003 against Romania before being exiled from selection for six years. The 34-year-old has been a frequent representative under Warren Gatland, winning two Six Nations titles and featuring in two World Cups – the sort of winning form you could replicate with this Ladbrokes promotional code.
Ospreys coach Steve Tandy said the experience of 66 caps has proven an asset to the region’s young front-row.
“Paul has been an outstanding servant for the Ospreys and is still an important, influential squad member who has a big part to play if we are going to be successful over the next two years.
“We have some great options at loose head with the like of Nicky Smith, Ryan Bevington and Gareth Thomas pushing for a place, but Paul, with his professionalism, durability and never say die attitude, will have no intention of giving up his shirt without a fight, which is exactly how it should be.”