Cardiff lose unbeaten Arms Park record in 36-21 defeat by Sharks
Cardiff took no points from a 36-21 URC defeat by Sharks at the Arms Park, despite James Botham scoring twice to put the hosts ahead.
Cardiff’s unbeaten home record in 2026 ended as Sharks won 36-21 at the Arms Park, leaving the hosts without a point from the United Rugby Championship encounter.
James Botham scored twice to turn a 17-7 half-time deficit into a Cardiff lead. But the Durban visitors responded with three more tries to take the match beyond the Blue and Blacks.
It was Cardiff’s first defeat at the ground since losing to Scarlets in December, their sole home reverse during the 2025-26 season, BBC News reports.
Botham double cannot hold off Sharks
Sharks struck through Ethan Hooker in the second minute, shortly after losing captain Andre Esterhuizen to a right Achilles injury. The centre had lasted only 20 seconds.
Josh Adams answered for Cardiff, finishing from Cam Winnett’s pass following a break by Le Roux Malan. Jarrod Evans converted, but further tries from Matt Romao and Jason Jenkins gave Sharks a 10-point interval lead.
Botham’s two tries then put Cardiff in front before Thomas du Toit restored the visitors’ advantage during the final quarter. Ethan Bester crossed next, with Romao adding his second to complete Sharks’ six-try tally. Evans converted all three Cardiff tries.
Cardiff struggled at the set-piece. Six members of Wales’ Nations Championship squad featured for the hosts: Adams, Liam Belcher, Teddy Williams, Alex Mann, Botham and Taine Basham. All appeared to finish the match unhurt.
Cardiff now turn their attention to the Ospreys derby, according to Cardiff Rugby.
Source: BBC News
