Bath Rugby has confirmed the signing of versatile South African back rower Dan du Preez, who will join the club from Sale Sharks ahead of the 2026/27 season. The 30-year-old is primarily a Number 8 but is also capable of playing in the second row or as a flanker, bringing valuable flexibility across the pack.
Du Preez arrives with extensive Premiership Rugby experience and six international caps for South Africa. He has agreed to a two-year contract with Bath, where he will serve as a direct replacement for Alfie Barbeary, who is set to move to Saracens this summer.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Du Preez said, “I’m really excited to be joining Bath. It’s a great club with huge ambition and incredible support behind it, and I can’t wait to get started and contribute to what the squad is building.”
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Bath’s Head of Rugby, Johann van Graan, highlighted Du Preez’s qualities: “Our DNA is being tough to beat, and Dan fits that mould perfectly. A strong ball carrier, set piece expert, and excellent defender, we are excited to see what he will bring to the team. His international and Premiership experience will be invaluable, and importantly, he is a wonderful family man.”
Sale Sharks’ director of rugby, Alex Sanderson, praised Du Preez’s contribution to the club: “Dan has been a fantastic servant to the club, and it’s been a pleasure working with him. We’re all gutted to see him leave and will miss him both on and off the pitch. I wish him all the best for the future.”