Van Graan lures South African prop to Bath

TRANSFER NEWS: Bath confirmed the signing of loosehead prop Francois van Wyk on a two-year deal.

Joining from Leicester Tigers, the South African will arrive at Farleigh House ready for 2024/25 pre-season training.

The 32-year-old will bolster Johann van Graan’s options at loosehead.

Van Wyk boasts more than 130 Premiership appearances from his four seasons with Northampton Saints (84) and three seasons with Leicester Tigers, where he has scored four tries this campaign and brought up his 50th appearance for the club.

Looking ahead to joining Bath, Van Wyk said: “From when I first spoke to Johann, it was clear to me that I wanted to join the project at Bath.

"I have always enjoyed playing at The Rec and look forward to joining up with the squad for next season.”

The loosehead prop played junior rugby for Western Province in his home city of Cape Town, before going on to play for Cape Town University side Ikey Tigers, where he played a key role in their title-winning 2011 Varsity Cup campaign.

Van Wyk has also played in the Super Rugby league for Australian outfit Western Force.

On adding van Wyk to his pack, Van Graan said: “Francois will add to the power of our pack. He’s an experienced front row and experienced front rows are very valuable. I have been very impressed by Francois as a human being, and he will fit in very well at Bath.”