Bath Rugby have made a significant move to enhance their backrow options for the 2026/27 season by signing six-cap Springbok number eight Dan du Preez from Sale Sharks. The 30-year-old South African was close to rejoining his former club, The Sharks of the United Rugby Championship, who are looking to replace Springbok captain Siya Kolisi. However, Bath swooped in to secure the powerful backrower’s services, ensuring he remains in the Gallagher Premiership.
Currently, Bath’s specialist number eights include Alfie Barbeary, Jaco Coetzee, and Arthur Green. Unfortunately, Coetzee has been sidelined for the remainder of the season due to his second ACL injury, highlighting the importance of du Preez’s acquisition.
Meanwhile, Exeter Chiefs are reportedly targeting Bath’s inside centre Will Butt as they seek midfield reinforcements under coach Rob Baxter. With Wallabies star Len Ikitau on a short-term nine-month contract, and powerful centre Will Grigg set to join Newcastle Red Bulls, Exeter’s need for midfield depth is clear. Butt, a product of the Bath academy and a recent team captain, has faced strong competition from internationals Cam Redpath, Ollie Lawrence, and Max Ojomoh, as well as rising talent Louie Hennessey.
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RugbyPass also reports that Baxter has shown interest in Bath fullback Tom de Glanville following Exeter’s loss of starter Josh Hodge to Newcastle Red Bulls. De Glanville, 26, who slipped in selection after the arrival of Argentina’s Santi Carreras, is reportedly close to signing a new deal at Bath but remains a player of interest for Devon.
Winger Joe Cokanasiga remains committed to Bath, with reports suggesting he is set to extend his stay beyond the 2026/27 season. The 28-year-old has been an impactful presence on the wing since joining from London Irish in 2018, despite increased competition from summer signing Henry Arundell and the returning England international Will Muir.
On the front row, Bath are experiencing mixed fortunes. England and British & Irish Lions prop Will Stuart has declined lucrative offers from France to re-sign with Bath, a boost for the club’s stability. However, loosehead Francois van Wyke is expected to join Connacht after his contract expires in June. Additionally, Thomas du Toit will depart for The Sharks next season, meaning coach Johann van Graan is actively seeking reinforcements for the loosehead position.
Van Graan commented on recruitment: “One of the things we’ve done exceptionally well over the last few years is our retention. Retaining our players becomes more difficult because they’re playing such good rugby. It’s a fascinating market, something I enjoy and keep a close eye on. Alongside day-to-day and week-to-week management, part of my role is to focus on the bigger picture. It’s a nice challenge every single day, and it’s something I enjoy.”