South African rugby star Thomas du Toit, renowned for his prowess on the international stage, has embarked on a new adventure with English Premiership club Bath. The 28-year-old tight-head prop, who hoisted the Rugby World Cup trophy with the Springboks in 2019, recently shared his thoughts and aspirations as he settles into his fresh role at Bath.
Du Toit’s move to Bath was initially announced in March, with expectations that he would join the team after the current year’s rugby extravaganza. However, fate had other plans, as he narrowly missed selection for the tournament but remained on standby due to injury concerns.
In an exclusive interview with BBC Radio Bristol, Du Toit expressed his enthusiasm for this new chapter in his rugby career. He candidly admitted, “Everything is new to me, but I’m trying to learn as fast as possible.” It’s a refreshing outlook from a seasoned player, highlighting his determination to adapt and excel in his new environment.
One of the challenges that Du Toit faces in his transition to Bath is adapting to different styles of play. He mentioned the rigors of scrumming and mauling, aspects of the game that might be unfamiliar but are essential in the Premiership. It’s a testament to his dedication that he’s eager to tackle these challenges head-on, saying, “I’ve got a lot to learn and a lot of growing to do.”
Du Toit brings a wealth of experience to Bath, having earned 18 caps for the South African national team and spent a decade with the Sharks in his home country. His rugby journey has also included brief stints with Munster and Toulouse. However, the allure of playing in the Premiership, under the guidance of compatriot and director of rugby Johann van Graan, was the decisive factor in his decision to join Bath.
Reflecting on the move, Du Toit explained, “In the URC [United Rugby Championship], it was very difficult to travel, playing in the French competition it’s a lot of rugby – not that it’s a bad thing – but what we found was we wanted to have more time as a family, and as much as we possibly can, and the Premiership allows that.” It’s a personal touch to his rugby journey, demonstrating that life off the field is just as important as success on it.
Du Toit is part of a trio of new faces at Bath this season, alongside marquee signing Finn Russell. Their arrival, coupled with Bath’s strong finish in the previous campaign, has injected fresh optimism into the club this summer. Du Toit’s outlook is ambitious, stating, “I would really like to see where this team can go. We’re building towards something great… I think it will be a step up, and I’m excited to see if we can actually win a trophy.”
As Thomas du Toit embraces the challenges and opportunities that come with his move to Bath, rugby fans can’t help but be excited about the impact he might have on the club and the electrifying moments he’ll undoubtedly bring to the pitch. His humility, determination, and hunger for success make him a player to watch in the Premiership this season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about rugby transition
Q: Who is Thomas du Toit and what is his recent rugby move?
A: Thomas du Toit is a prominent South African rugby player who achieved fame by winning the Rugby World Cup with the Springboks in 2019. He recently made headlines by signing with English Premiership club Bath.
Q: When was Thomas du Toit’s move to Bath announced?
A: Thomas du Toit’s move to Bath was officially announced in March.
Q: Why did Thomas du Toit join Bath earlier than expected?
A: Initially, he was scheduled to join Bath after the current year’s rugby tournament. However, he missed out on selection for the tournament but remained on standby due to injury concerns, prompting his earlier arrival at Bath.
Q: What challenges is Thomas du Toit facing in his transition to Bath?
A: Du Toit is adapting to different playing styles, particularly the physical demands of scrumming and mauling, which are vital in the English Premiership.
Q: Why did Thomas du Toit choose to play in the Premiership with Bath?
A: Thomas du Toit cited a desire for more family time as a key factor in choosing the Premiership over other competitions. He also highlighted the appeal of working with fellow South African Johann van Graan, who is the director of rugby at Bath.
Q: Who are the other new players at Bath this season?
A: Apart from Thomas du Toit, Finn Russell is another marquee signing at Bath this season, contributing to the growing optimism surrounding the club.
Q: What are Thomas du Toit’s aspirations with Bath?
A: Thomas du Toit is excited about the potential of the team and aims to win trophies with Bath. He sees this season as a step up and is eager to contribute to the club’s success.
