Young duo commits to Sharks
The 22-year-old James made his Premiership debut for the club in 2014 against Saints and has since gone on to score seven tries in 24 appearances and helped the club to sixth place in the Premiership which secured a spot in the European Champions Cup.
His efforts on the field saw him being awarded the clubs' Young Player of the Season, alongside Cameron Neild who also signed a four-year deal at the club this week.
"I am delighted to have signed a long-term deal with the club. Dimes [Steve Diamond] has assembled a great squad of players who want to win games and also entertain.
"We are looking to build on last season's sixth-place finish in the Premiership and finish in the top four. The European Champions Cup will also be a great opportunity for us to show what we can do. The new season can't come quick enough for me," James said.
His performances on the field didn't go unnoticed and was selected for the England Saxons tour of South Africa, appearing in both of the games against South Africa A, putting in two great performances.
"Sam is a fantastic young English player, who took his opportunity well last season. In addition to the Premiership, Sam will be playing in the European Champions Cup against Scarlets, Toulon and holders Saracens this season, against some of the greatest players in the game.
"I have every confidence he will build on his first full season with us and am sure he will be pushing towards an England call up in the not too distant future.
"Cameron is a great young player, who has come through the academy and shone last season. We're pleased he's chosen to extend his deal at the club, and I have no doubt that he will continue to progress," Director of Rugby Steve Diamond said.
The 21-year-old Neild is a product of the Sale Academy and broke into the team at blindside flank last season, making 23 appearances for the club last season and scored his first professional try against Leicester.
"I'm really chuffed to be staying at the club, it's the club I used to go and support when they played at Edgeley Park. I'm really happy to able to stay here long term and I'm looking forward to the upcoming season," Neild said.
