South Africa prop Thomas du Toit’s end-of-season move to the Sharks from Bath has been confirmed by both clubs.
RugbyPass outlined the details of the tighthead prop’s move last week, but Bath director of rugby Johann van Graan was reluctant to comment on the potential transfer.
Both clubs have now confirmed his departure when his contract expires at the end of the season.
The move will see the 30-year-old return to the club that he started his career at.
Du Toit made his first appearance of the Gallagher PREM season in last week’s 38-17 victory over Gloucester, coming on for the final half hour a week after starting for South Africa as they clinched the Rugby Championship title against Argentina at Twickenham’s Allianz Stadium.
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The 30-cap Springbok joined Bath in 2023 and swiftly established himself as one of the premier players in the league. He was pivotal in their treble-winning campaign last season, scoring a try in the Premiership final victory over Leicester Tigers.
In a statement shared on their website, Bath wrote: “Bath Rugby can confirm that Thomas du Toit will be returning to South Africa at the end of this season to rejoin his former club, the Sharks, in Durban.
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“The Springbok’s contract with the Blue, Black and White expires next summer, with du Toit deciding to return to his homeland.
“The giant prop 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 has scored 21 tries in 52 appearances in blue, black and white, and will still play a major part in their season, which continues on Saturday with a trip to Welford Road to take on Leicester Tigers.