Atkin-Davies and Botterman to stay with Bristol
England hooker Lark Atkin-Davies and prop Hannah Botterman have both signed two-year extensions to stay with Premiership Women's Rugby side Bristol Bears.The Red Roses duo are both included in John Mitchell's squad for the current Women's Six Nations tournament.Atkin-Davies has 62 caps for her country and has scored 12 tries in 14 games for the Bears during 2024-25 in the PWR, as they reached the semi-finals. The forward joined the club from Worcester in 2022 and she wants to "keep building" with the team. "This club, the fans, the people and the incredible atmosphere at Ashton Gate and Shaftesbury Park make it a special place to play. I can't wait to keep building with this team on and off the field," Atkin-Davies said.
Head coach Dave Ward said Atkin-Davies must be considered as the "standout" hooker in the world. "Lark has played some outstanding rugby this season and the levels she has achieved both at set piece and in the loose she must be in the frame for the standout hooker in the world right now," he said."The consistency and accuracy of performance she has put in to almost be at 50 appearances shows the impact she has had to the success of the squad, and we can't wait for what's to come."
Loose-head prop Botterman joined the Bears from Saracens in 2023 and was also a consistent starter this season, with 13 appearances.The 25-year-old, who has 52 England caps, said she was "pleased" to have extended her contract."We still believe her best rugby is in front of her and we can't wait to see that in a Bears shirt," Ward said. "The personality and energy she brings to the group is something very unique to her and we are very happy she is here to stay.Atkin-Davies and Botterman follow Red Roses team-mates Abbie Ward and Sarah Bern in agreeing new terms with Bristol since the season concluded.
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