It’s a long way from the cold of Haywards Heath National 3 Rugby Club in the U.K, but Port Macquarie has proven a ray of sunshine for one Englishman. James Arthur joined the Port Pirates Rugby Club looking to enhance his game, his surfing skills, and his Aussie experience. And it is fair to say he has succeeded in all his aspirations. The solid flanker started the season on the side of the scrum but following a season ending injury to Angus Arnell has joined Peter Besseling in the second row of the scrum. Since that time he has proven to be one of the Pirates strongest players having taken the best and fairest points in four of his last six outings.

Arthur runs and tackles hard, but is also blessed with ball skills that would make most backs proud. He is looking forward to helping the Pirates return to the top of Mid Coast Rugby this Saturday “If there’s one word to describe the Pirates Rugby Club it’s “passion” he said. “From the coaches, to the supporters, to all the boys on the field, I have never seen so much pride in a rugby shirt” “and If I can help give them the title they are after so badly it would certainly cap my time in Australia”

Arthur refused to be drawn into the debate on the “dark art of tap dancing” (rucking) that has dominated the pre-match discussion this year. Instead he says he is looking to concentrating on his own game, and ensuring the Pirates forwards can give their backs quality ball to entertain the crowd. “winning would be great he says”, “but winning with style is better.”

One look at James hair would certainly hint that “style” is something he is more than aware of. And the Pirates will be hoping he brings plenty of it come Saturday.