Du Toit: I hope to have played a part in developing young stars

Thomas du Toit said he hopes to have played a part in the development of some of Bath Rugby’s rising stars.

South African superstar Thomas du Toit made an impressive display for Bath Rugby against Bristol Bears here at Ashton Gate Stadium on Friday 29th May | Photo © Richard Briggs

The giant prop will be leaving the Blue, Black & White at the end of the season in order to return home to South Africa.

But he has been an inspirational figure at the club, turning in some immense performances for Johann van Graan’s team and passing on his experience to their young props.

Du Toit – who was named at tighthead in 2025 World Rugby Dream Team of the Year – put in another superb display in Bath’s Gallagher PREM Round 17 defeat at Bristol Bears on Friday 29th May.

At the Blue, Black & White’s post-match press conference, the 31-year-old said: “I’ve had the best time at Bath.

“I’ve enjoyed my time unbelievably much, but it’s not over and I don’t want to miss a beat going into the last couple of weeks.

“So I’d say I’m probably enjoying it the most at the moment, trying not to miss anything.”

On aiding the development of young Bath props such as Vilikesa Sela and Scott Kirk, du Toit said: “I’ve always been available to those guys and I’ve always wanted to help.

“I think those guys might be leaning a little bit more on the older guys at the moment, coming towards the end of the season.

“I’ve always been available to those guys and they’re unbelievable players. I hope to be a small part in their career.”