Sale Sharks supporters bid a poignant adieu to long-serving player, Sam James, as he announces his departure from the club this summer after more than a decade of dedicated service. The 29-year-old, who made his debut in 2013, has been a pivotal figure for the team, primarily operating as a centre, but also showcasing his capabilities at full-back and fly-half. With an impressive 236 appearances for Sale, he has contributed 194 points to the team’s success.
Alex Sanderson, the Sharks’ director of rugby, expressed his gratitude towards James for his unwavering commitment and devotion to the club. According to Sanderson, James has been an integral part of the team, and his departure will undoubtedly leave a void in the Sharks’ lineup.
James’ journey with Sale commenced in 2012, after serving as a ballboy for the team at Edgeley Park. His debut against Northampton Saints in 2013 marked the beginning of a distinguished career with the Sharks. Notably, during the 2018-19 season, he achieved the remarkable feat of playing every minute of their Premiership campaign, making him the only player in the league to do so. In the following season, he was deservedly named in the Premiership Dream Team, a testament to his exceptional talent and contribution to the sport.
On the international stage, James proudly represented England against the Barbarians in 2017 and subsequently went on the tour to Argentina that same year, showcasing his skills at the highest level of the game.
In a statement released on the club’s website, James expressed his deep-rooted connection to Sale Sharks, a team he had supported since childhood, making his time with the club a dream come true. While the decision to leave was a difficult one for him and his family, he believes that the time is right to embrace a new challenge, expressing his enduring support for the team.
Director of rugby Alex Sanderson fondly acknowledges James’ significant contribution to the club, describing him as the “heartbeat” of Sale Sharks. He expressed understanding and respect for James’ decision to seek new opportunities, while also emphasizing the immense impact and legacy that James leaves behind at the club.
As James prepares to embark on a new chapter in his career, the Sharks’ community, including fans, coaches, and players, will undoubtedly miss his presence on and off the field, while continuing to hold him in high regard.
The departure of Sam James marks the end of an era for Sale Sharks, but it also paves the way for new opportunities and fresh talent to emerge within the club. As James bids farewell to his boyhood team, the legacy of his remarkable career will undoubtedly endure, leaving an indelible mark on the history of Sale Sharks.