‘All-time great’ Springboks prop Thomas du Toit to return to South Africa after ‘influential’ stint at Bath
'All-time great' Springbok prop to return to South Africa after 'influential' stint at Bath Rugby
Bath have confirmed that Thomas du Toit will be returning to South Africa at the end of this season to rejoin his former club, the Sharks.
The giant prop will head back to Durban next summer when his existing contract expires.
Du Toit signed for Johann van Graan’s side in 2023 and has gone on to become one of the most highly regarded players in the Gallagher PREM, playing a pivotal role in Bath’s historic 2025/26 treble-winning season.
Du Toit was nominated for PREM Rugby Player of the Season last year and has scored 21 tries in 52 appearances for the West Country outfit since his arrival.
He came through the Sharks Academy before making his senior debut for the club in 2014.
Du Toit has played for his national team on 30 occasions, having won his first Test cap against Wales in 2018 before going on to win the 2019 Rugby World Cup with South Africa and, more recently, the 2025 Rugby Championship.
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Fan response
Bath fans are naturally disappointed by the news, but have demonstrated their utmost respect and thanks to the man who performed so well for the club during his stay in the West Country.
Here is a selection of the fans’ comments:
Robert Pothecary: “That’s a big loss for us fantastic rugby player, but thank you, Thomas and good luck to you and your family. Hopefully, you can leave us at the end of the season with another trophy-winning season.”
Nigel Hibberd: “Who’s with me to hide his passport? Seriously, thank you, Thomas, for all your contributions to the team.”
Pete Sparrow: “Not just great on the field, but his influence around him. Just look at the bank of front row talent we have inspired to play and train with him. His legacy will truly be valued when the next cabs off the rank step up. Thank you.”
Richard Watson: “Will certainly go down as one of the Bath greats. His ability to pack down on both sides of the scrum and his power in and around the breakdown – oh and those 20m tries!!!”
Malcolm Cleverly: “Thank you for your great contribution, Thomas. Have a great rest of the season and good luck in your future endeavours!! COYB.”
Alastair Byers: “Nooooooo! What a guy. Will never forget the Saints’ final and what he did to cover both sides of the scrum. Truly extraordinary. Thank you, ‘Tank’, for everything you give week in week out. It’s a better place when you are in the middle of it. Let’s hope he can go out on a high!”
Harvey Burgess: “He’s been truly outstanding for Bath, and while he’ll be missed, he leaves as one of the all-time greats.”
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