In a surprising development, South African rugby powerhouse Thomas du Toit is set to leave Bath, marking the end of a remarkable journey. But here's the twist: he's heading back to where it all began!
The official announcement
Both Bath and the Sharks have confirmed that du Toit, a formidable tighthead prop, will be returning to the Sharks in Durban, South Africa, once his contract with Bath expires at the season's conclusion. This news comes just an hour after his recent appearance in the Gallagher PREM season, where he contributed to a thrilling victory over Gloucester.
A brief history
Du Toit's rugby prowess was on full display during his time at Bath, where he joined in 2023 and quickly rose to prominence. With 30 caps for the Springboks, he played a pivotal role in their 2025/26 treble-winning campaign, even scoring a try in the Premiership final against Leicester Tigers. This 30-year-old veteran's impact on the field has been undeniable, scoring 21 tries in 52 appearances for Bath.
The director's silence
Interestingly, Bath director of rugby Johann van Graan initially remained tight-lipped about the transfer, despite RugbyPass reporting the details last week. But now, the move is official, and du Toit's homecoming is set to be a significant moment for the Sharks.
And this is where it gets intriguing: how will du Toit's departure impact Bath's ongoing season? With his impressive record and influence on the team, it's a question that has fans and critics alike on the edge of their seats. Will Bath be able to maintain their momentum without one of their star players? Only time will tell, but the rugby world is watching with bated breath as this story unfolds.
