South African prop Thomas du Toit was the standout player at Bath Rugby’s end-of-season awards, taking home three major accolades. The Springbok, who is set to leave Bath this summer after three impactful seasons to join the Sharks in Durban, was honoured as the Player’s Player, Supporters’ Player, and Forward of the Year during the club’s ceremony on Saturday, the day after a narrow 21-19 loss to Bristol Bears.
Reflecting on du Toit’s influence, centre Max Ojomoh praised his versatility and leadership on the Bath Rugby Plug podcast: “What a player. Athletes like him are borderline irreplaceable. He’s an international-standard tighthead who can also perform at loosehead—a rarity in rugby. Beyond his skills, he’s a fantastic teammate and has been vital to the squad over the past two years.”
Despite du Toit’s departure, Bath remains strong in the tighthead position, boasting players such as England and British & Irish Lion Will Stuart, who is recovering from a ruptured Achilles, along with Wales international Archie Griffin and promising talent Billy Sela rising through the ranks.
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Another highlight of the awards night was winger Joe Cokanasiga, who earned the Back of the Year title after an impressive season. Although he scored just four tries, his overall game—especially his aerial ability and defensive skills—has elevated significantly. Ojomoh attributed part of Cokanasiga’s success to recent eye surgery: “He had surgery on his eyes between this season and last. The aerial contest is huge in today’s game, and Joe is pulling in numbers rivaling ‘Horse-like’ Will Muir. Standing 6 foot 4 inches and dominating in the air must be intimidating for opponents. He also finishes strongly. The progress he’s made over the last few years, adapting to how the game is evolving, is nothing short of unbelievable.”
Hooker Kepu Tuipulotu was named Breakthrough Player of the Season, while Tom de Glanville received the Tough to Beat award. Prop Kieran Verden was recognised as Clubman of the Year for his contributions.