Originally from Vryheld in South Africa, Botha began his career in England with Bedford Blues before being signed by Saracens in the summer of 2009.
In 2011 Botha helped Saracens win the Premiership title.
Alongside England international Steve Borthwick, Botha's game developed quickly and saw him enter the England set up under Martin Johnson. The 2012 Six Nations campaign saw Botha start all five of England's games under the tutelage of Stuart Lancaster.
At the end of 2015 Botha moved back to South Africa and linked up with the Sharks ahead of the 2015 Super Rugby season.
He stayed with the Durban-based franchise before he moved back to England this time joining Newcastle Falcons.
In August 2017 Botha announced that he would retire from professional rugby at the age of 35.
He has made the decision on medical advice after failing to recover from a concussion suffered during the 2016-17 season.
Botha played 142 games during his six seasons at Saracens, joining the Falcons in the summer of 2015 and going on to make 14 Premiership appearances for the Kingston Park club.
He retires having played 10 times for England.
JW Aug 17
Career
 |
Saracens Women Coach |
2023 - present |
 |
Saracens No 4 Lock |
2009 - 2014 |
 |
England No 4 Lock |
2012 - 2014 |
 |
Sharks No 4 Lock |
2015 - 2015 |
 |
Newcastle Falcons No 4 Lock |
2015 - 2017 |
