Thomas du Toit ready for ‘a real challenge’ as Bath set up play-off with Exeter Chiefs

Thomas du Toit, Bath’s hat-trick hero, is preparing his team for a daunting encounter with Exeter Chiefs in the Gallagher Premiership play-offs. Bath clinched home advantage after a hard-fought 24-22 victory over Leicester at a rain-soaked Recreation Ground.

As reigning Premiership champions, Bath secured second place behind Northampton, while Exeter earned third spot by defeating Saracens 32-12. Now, Bath will host Exeter, aiming to reach their third straight Premiership final, with Leicester set to face Saints in the other semi-final.

Du Toit’s close-range tries were pivotal in Bath’s win, and the South African prop expressed his excitement about the upcoming challenge. “We are just so grateful to play at home next Saturday. Exeter have shown what type of team they are, and we are up for a real challenge,” he said.

He acknowledged the toughness of their Leicester opponents, noting their formidable scrum and physical style of play, which provided a valuable test. Du Toit laughed about his hat-trick milestone, saying it was a result of his teammates getting him close to the line and him doing the rest.

Joe Cokanasiga also scored for Bath, with fly-half Santi Carreras adding two conversions. Leicester fought hard with tries from Orlando Bailey, Jack van Poortvliet, and George Pearson, plus kicking contributions by James O’Connor.

Bath head of rugby Johann van Graan praised Du Toit’s all-around impact, highlighting his prowess in scrums, lineouts, mauls, and try-scoring. Van Graan emphasized the significance of securing a home semi-final and credited the team’s determination in a tough, physical contest resembling a Test match.

Leicester’s hopes now rest on overcoming Northampton in a must-win game to keep their title ambitions alive. Despite the loss, Tigers head coach Geoff Parling remained optimistic, focusing on lessons learned and preparing for their next challenge against Saints.