The 28-year-old Number 10, has been the Sharks king-pin in recent years and is the favourite for the fly-half berth in the World Cup squad. Just this year, James helped the Sharks to reach the final of the Super 14, where they lost out by only a mere point to South African side the Bulls after a thrilling contest.

Renowned for his accurate goal-kicking, visionary distribution and ferocious defence, James is considered not only an energetic, but inspirational team player, and is set to be an invaluable asset to this season’s squad.  Head Coach, Steve Meehan believes “Butch’s skill set, experience and physicality will no doubt provide the team with certainty and opportunity. We are sure he will contribute towards Bath being a more dangerous team in attack and more solid defensively. He has made a good decision in coming to Bath and I am sure his new team-mates and supporters will make him feel welcome.”

Butch is currently at the World Cup with South Africa.