South Africa international Thomas du Toit to join Bath Rugby

Bath Rugby have announced the signing of South Africa international tighthead prop Thomas du Toit.

The 27-year-old will head to the Recreation Ground following the conclusion of the 2023 Rugby World Cup scheduled in France.

He will now follow the footsteps of Scotland fly-half Finn Russell to the Recreation Ground for the new season.

Du Toit started his professional rugby career with provincial side Sharks in 2014 and in the same year went on to make his Super Rugby debut for them. He also had a brief loan stint with Irish province Munster.

He made his international debut for South Africa in 2018 and has featured for them in 15 games including a victorious Rugby World Cup campaign in 2019.

“Thomas is a winner. He has experience of winning at the highest level, having reached the pinnacle of world rugby with the Springboks," said Bath head of rugby Johann van Graan.

“He is a world-class operator at scrum time. There are not many players in the world who can play on both sides of the scrum to an international standard, maintain control and have destructive power.

"He is another player we have added to our squad who also possesses fantastic carrying ability to get his side over the gainline.

“Thomas is a fantastic leader having been captain of The Sharks and South Africa A and we are delighted he has chosen Bath to continue his rugby journey.”

Meanwhile, du Toit is excited about joining the club later this year.

“When I spoke to Johann and heard his vision for Bath, I was excited and knew it was the place I wanted to be.

“I want to challenge myself and develop my game in an environment which has a desire to progress and achieve.

“Everyone talks about how iconic a place The Rec is to play at and I’ve heard that supporters pack it out every time which is special. I can’t wait to meet everyone and contribute to the club’s future success.”