Bath raid continues to grow in South Africa

TRANSFER NEWS: Bath Rugby confirmed the signing of South African hooker Jacques du Toit, who joins the squad with immediate effect from Cheetahs.

The hooker becomes the latest South African addition to the Premiership and is now one of three in the Blue, Black and White squad.

Hooper is building a squad with a core of passionate homegrown men, interspersed with world-class talent and the signing of Jacques du Toit is further reinforcement of his strategy.

On the addition of du Toit, Director of Rugby Stuart Hooper, said: “We are really pleased to welcome Jacques and his family to Bath Rugby.

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"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 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 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.

Meanwhile, reports have surfaced that Bath are keen to sign Stormers loose forward Jaco Coetzee.

The highly-rated 24-year-old, who has been a star for the Cape Town side, has reportedly been lined up as Montpellier bound No.8 Zach Mercer's replacement.