Long-serving Sale Sharks forward Josh Beaumont has signed a new one-year contract with the club.
The 31-year-old fans’ favourite made his debut in a Heineken Cup fixture against Montpellier in 2013 and has gone on to make more than 160 appearances for the club.
After overcoming serious knee and hamstring injuries, Josh played 26 times last season as Alex Sanderson’s Sharks reached the Premiership final.
And this season he’s continued to make a big impact on and off the field with 19 appearances so far, including seven as part of the starting XV.
Josh said: “I did think the last deal I signed might be my last but I’m feeling really good. I’ve always said that the day I stop enjoying coming in and wanting to train and get better, I’d retire.
“But my body is feeling good, I’m playing in lots of games and I’m still loving it as much as I ever have.
“We’ve had some massive fixtures this season in front of big crowds and they’ve been brilliant to be a part of. We’re going through a difficult period at the moment, but the exciting part is how we rise to the challenge and come out the other side.
“We’ve got some brilliant players and I have no doubt we’re building something special here.”
Sharks Director of Rugby Alex Sanderson said: “With Josh it’s never been about his talent, it’s been about how his body is holding out and whether he has the drive to carry on playing. I’m very pleased to say that he is in great shape and he’s as motivated as ever to carry on competing at the very highest level week in, week out. That’s no mean feat.
“He’s an older head in a young group and he’s seen the club go through some big changes since he made his debut. Within the group he’s really well trusted and respected.
“He’s not one to hang from the rafters and shout and scream. He’s a calm voice, he’s experienced and someone the boys go to for advice and counsel when things get turbulent on and off the field.
“I’ve got so much trust and respect for him and as a coach you need people like Josh who can keep their heads when everyone around is losing theirs.”
