The Sharks have traded one Springbok prop for another after it was confirmed that Thomas du Toit will be joining Bath on the same day Vincent Koch’s move to Durban is expected to be announced.
Bath on Wednesday officially confirmed the signing of Du Toit, who will move to England after the 2023 World Cup.
The 27-year-old tighthead, a Sharks centurion, will make his exit after over nine years in Durban. He joins former Springbok assistant coach Johann van Graan at Bath.
“When I spoke to Johann and heard his vision for Bath, I was excited and knew it was the place I wanted to be,” Du Toit said.
“I want to challenge myself and develop my game in an environment which has the desire to progress and achieve.”
A devastating force in the scrum, Du Toit is the latest high-profile signing for Bath, following Scotland flyhalf Finn Russell.
“Thomas is a winner,” Van Graan said. “He has experience of winning at the highest level, having reached the pinnacle of world rugby with the Springboks.
“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.”
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While Du Toit’s departure will be a big blow for the Sharks, the Durban side is expected to announce the signing of Springbok teammate Koch from Stade Francais.
Photo: Steve Haag/Gallo Images
