Du Toit is finally unveiled

Bath Rugby have finally confirmed the signing of South African hooker Jacques du Toit.

The forward joins with immediate effect from Toyota Cheetahs but will have to undergo 14 days of quarantine before linking up with the squad. The club have not released the length of his contract.

Despite Bath looking to build a squad of homegrown players, with a target of having 50 per cent of the first team squad homegrown by 2023, du Toit becomes the third South African in the Blue, Black and White squad following confirmation of the signing of his former team mate Tian Schoeman last week.

Discussing du Toit’s signing, Bath director of rugby Stuart Hooper, said: “We are really pleased to welcome Jacques and his family to Bath Rugby.

“Jacques came to our attention after some impressive performances in South Africa. After speaking with Jacques and understanding his motivations we concluded that he is exactly the right type of person and player that we want to add to our squad.

“Jacques is a physical forward who is able to use his skills to keep play alive with his handling ability and explosive running.

“He will fight for a shirt with the Blue, Black and White and adds to our depth in the position.”

The 27-year-old came through the ranks at Toyota Cheetahs, representing them at all age groups at both junior and senior levels. du Toit had been preparing to captain the Southern Kings having moved from the Cheetahs last season before the club fell into liquidation.

He made an immediate return to the Toyota Cheetahs and had since been playing for them in South Africa’s Currie Cup competition.

Du Toit arrived in Bath on Sunday and will isolate with his family for 14-days.

He will join the rugby programme and meet the squad once these COVID-19 protocols are complete and could potential feature against Sale Sharks in Round Nine of the Gallagher Premiership.

On the flipside, it has been announced the Scotland prop Jamie Bhatti will rejoin Glasgow Warriors ahead of the 2021/22 campaign after arriving as injury cover in December.