James
Butch James is a retired South African fly-half, who played at both club and country level.
Butch James Bio
Famed for his excellent kicking and distribution, Butch James is a retired South African fly-half who played at the highest levels for both club and country.
Born Andrew David James in Johannesburg, South Africa in January 1979, the nickname ‘Butch’ was given to him by his grandmother when he was an infant, due to his boisterous nature. Butch James’ rugby career began during his school years, but he first signed professionally for the Sharks in 2000, making his debut the following year.
He played in what was the Super 12 and in the Currie Cup for the Sharks and was a popular player amongst the fanbase, primarily for his aggressive tackling and impressive kicking abilities. Collectively he made over 100 appearances for the Sharks, and thanks to his kicking, amassed over 800 points. However, Butch James was at times dogged by persistent knee injuries, which restricted his time on the pitch for the side.
He left Sharks in 2007 and signed for Bath and stayed with the side and played Premiership Rugby with them until 2011 making 68 appearances - his playing time again being hampered by injury. Following this he returned to South Africa, briefly joining the Lions for one season, before then returning to Sharks and ultimately retiring from the game in 2013.
Butch James’ Springbok career began in 2001 when he was first called up to play in a test match against France. He then featured in the Tri Nations Series of the same year but in the years that followed his injuries meant he made sporadic appearances for the South African national side.
His biggest achievement on the world stage though was his involvement in the 2007 Rugby World Cup. He played in the tournament’s three pool matches, the three knock-out stages and in the final was instrumental in keeping Jonny Wilkinson at bay – which in many ways meant Butch James played a huge part in his sides 15-6 tournament win.
His final game for South Africa came in 2011, his 42nd cap. After his retirement from playing the game, Butch James now regularly offers punditry and commentary on rugby for South African television.
