Bath Rugby approaches the 2026/27 season with a largely stable squad, guided by head of rugby Johann van Graan, who has made only minimal changes in personnel. Despite a few notable departures, the return of several injured players and fresh signings position Bath as strong contenders for the title once again.
A significant loss comes with the departure of world-class tighthead prop Thomas du Toit, who heads back to South Africa to join the Sharks. Du Toit’s versatility across the front row made him a vital player. However, Bath retains considerable strength in that position with England and British & Irish Lions star Will Stuart, returning after a ruptured Achilles tendon. Stuart’s presence lessens the blow of du Toit’s exit—highlighting that having three and a half international tightheads was perhaps unsustainable under the salary cap.
Among the exciting prospects is 21-year-old Billy Sela, who has impressed with England A and spent the summer training with England’s senior squad. Though not capped at senior level yet, Sela is widely viewed as a rising talent. Wales international Archie Griffin also faces a pivotal year, needing to step up competition in the first team after balancing club appearances with international duties last season.
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Another notable departure is François van Wyk, whose solid performances as a loosehead off the bench had been instrumental. Van Graan has addressed this by signing 36-cap Scotland international Jamie Bhatti, a familiar face at the Recreation Ground during the Covid era, now brought in as a reliable cover and impact player.
At back row, fan favorite Alfie Barbeary leaves for Saracens after an impressive but inconsistent stint at Bath. Van Graan replaces him with the powerful former Springbok Dan du Preez from Sale Sharks. Du Preez is widely regarded for his physicality and was praised by former Gloucester captain Lewlis Ludlow as the most dominant forward in the Gallagher Premiership for his ability to overpower opponents.
Further bolstering the squad, Jaco Coetzee is expected to return from an ACL injury, along with emerging talents Arthur Green and England U20 captain Connor Treacey, who both promise to provide exciting options.
Despite 11 senior departures this summer, Bath has effectively replaced only three key players from van Graan’s core matchday squad. With established replacements and strong youth development, Bath Rugby’s lineup for 2026/27 looks set to be one of the strongest and most enviable in the league.
Confirmed Incoming:
- Jamie Bhatti, Prop, Glasgow Warriors
- Dan du Preez, Back row, Sale Sharks
Confirmed Outgoings:
- François van Wyk, Prop, Connacht
- Thomas du Toit, Prop, Sharks
- Mikey Summerfield, Prop, Ealing Trailfinders
- Alfie Barbeary, Back row, Saracens
- Ethan Staddon, Back row, Bristol Bears
- Sam Harris, Fly-half, Exeter Chiefs
- Chris Harris, Centre, Newcastle Red Bulls
- Will Butt, Centre, Exeter Chiefs
- Harvey Cuckson, Lock, Scarlets
- Tyler Mason, Centre, Blue Bulls
- Neil le Roux, Scrum-half, Blue Bulls