Jordan James to play on with All Golds

Wales international Jordan James has signed a two-year deal with Gloucestershire All Golds, alongside his new coaching role at Wigan Wigan.

James, 33, turned down an offer to stay at Salford to join brothers Joel and Jamie, who are members of the All Golds academy, at the club, as well as his new role developing the game in Wales with the Warriors.

The Bath-born forward played his amateur rugby for Gloucestershire Warriors, and has played for Sheffield, Castleford, Wigan, Crusaders and South Wales during his career.

He said: “I’m delighted to join such a great club, they have real aspirations of playing at the top level and I’m really relishing the chance to help them on their journey. They are working their way up from the bottom and doing it correctly, ensuring the club will flourish, which is a testament to the people in charge.

“The City and the fans are crying out for Rugby League at the highest level and hopefully I can play well and help achieve the dream the All Golds have. I would also like to say thanks to Wigan Warriors for allowing me to continue playing alongside my coaching duties.”

James is just four appearances away from becoming the most capped Welshman of all time, something he could achieve playing at the World Cup, should Wales progress through the group stages.

All Golds coach Brad Hepi said: “Jordan James brings with him a wealth of experience from Super League, and he’s a tough, seasoned performer. That is exactly what we were lacking last year. Jordan is the sort of player you can build your squad around. He brings the brains, experience and toughness that you need to compete at this level. It’s a massive signing for us, and it is a signal of intent to the Rugby League world just how serious we are taking the game down here.

“Jordan will bring an instant turnaround in the squad. He’s a consummate professional and that is reflected in his inclusion in the Wales squad for the World Cup. He’s undoubtedly one of the biggest names in the Welsh squad and I’m sure Iestyn and the Wales team will be looking to Jordan to lead them, just as I’ll be looking to him to lead the team and the forward pack next year.”