Bath confirm 10 departures including Springbok 'legend' Du Toit and Barbeary

Bath Rugby have confirmed the departure of 10 players at the end of the season, with Springbok flanker Pieter-Steph du Toit the most prominent name among six senior squad exits. Du Toit returns to South Africa to join the Sharks after three seasons at the Rec, having made 72 appearances and won three consecutive forward of the season awards, including a Gallagher Premiership title.

Head of Rugby Johann van Graan paid tribute to the British & Irish Lion, describing him as a “Bath legend” after his contribution to the club’s domestic success. “We wish them the very best for the next step,” van Graan said. “It’s been great having them as part of our circle.”

Scotland international Sam Harris departs after a single season, returning to the north-east to join Newcastle Red Bulls, while England A back-row Alfie Barbeary heads to Saracens. Academy graduate Will Butt, who made 76 appearances for his boyhood club, joins Exeter Chiefs, and winger Ethan Staddon moves to Bristol Bears. South African prop Francois van Wyk completes the senior departures, signing for Connacht after two seasons at Bath.

Four academy products are also moving on. Fly-half Sam Harris joins Exeter Chiefs, lock Harvey Cuckson has signed for Scarlets, scrum-half Neil le Roux departed earlier in the year to join the Bulls, and tighthead prop Mikey Summerfield leaves after four seasons in the club’s development pathway.

Despite the volume of exits, Bath are expected to retain the core of the squad that has established the club as one of English rugby’s leading sides under van Graan.