"Powerful addition" - Bath sign two international stars ahead of 2026/27 season

Monday, 07 September 2026 at 10:53

bySteven Smith

Bath Rugby have added two experienced international forwards to Johann van Graan’s squad ahead of the 2026/27 Gallagher PREM season.

South Africa international Dan du Preez and Scotland prop Jamie Bhatti have arrived at The Rec, while academy prospect Will Roue has stepped up into the senior group.

However, the Blue, Black and White have also waved goodbye to nine players, including several prominent members of their title-winning squad.

Here is a complete summary of Bath’s transfer activity ahead of the new campaign.

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PLAYERS IN

Dan du Preez – Sale Sharks

The powerful South African back-rower arrives after establishing himself as one of the PREM’s most destructive forwards during his time with Sale.

Du Preez, who has represented the Springboks, can operate across the back row and brings considerable carrying power, physicality and top-level experience.

Bath confirmed the arrival of Du Preez ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

Jamie Bhatti – Glasgow Warriors

Scotland international Jamie Bhatti joins Bath following a successful spell with Glasgow Warriors.

The experienced loosehead prop has featured regularly in the United Rugby Championship and Champions Cup, adding proven scrummaging ability and international pedigree to Bath’s front row.

Bhatti, who previously represented Bath during the 2020/21 season, has signed a two-year contract running until 2028.

Will Roue – promoted from academy

Highly-rated academy prospect Will Roue has been promoted into Bath’s senior squad.

The young forward will continue his development around Van Graan’s experienced first-team group while competing for senior opportunities.

PLAYERS OUT

Thomas du Toit – Sharks

The Springbok prop has returned to South Africa to rejoin the Sharks.

Du Toit became a hugely influential member of Bath’s pack, providing destructive scrummaging, powerful carrying and the versatility to play on either side of the front row.

Francois van Wyk – Connacht

The experienced loosehead has joined Irish province Connacht.

Van Wyk provided dependable front-row cover during his time at The Rec and brought valuable PREM experience whenever called upon.

Will Butt – Exeter Chiefs

Academy graduate Will Butt has moved across the West Country to join Exeter.

The powerful centre developed into a regular senior contributor at Bath and offers the Chiefs direct carrying, defensive strength and leadership.

Ethan Staddon – Bristol Bears

Back-rower Ethan Staddon has crossed the local divide to sign for Bristol Bears.

The academy product impressed during his senior opportunities for Bath and will hope to secure more regular first-team rugby at Ashton Gate.

Alfie Barbeary – Saracens

Alfie Barbeary has completed a major PREM move to Saracens.

The explosive number eight became a destructive ball-carrying option for Bath but will now continue his career with the London club.

Saracens officially announced Barbeary’s signing in March ahead of the new campaign.

Sam Harris – Exeter Chiefs

Versatile back Sam Harris has joined Will Butt at Exeter Chiefs on a two-year contract.

Capable of playing at fly-half or full-back, Harris was regarded as one of Bath’s most exciting young talents and will be looking for consistent senior opportunities at Sandy Park.

Chris Harris – Newcastle Red Bulls

Scotland and British and Irish Lions centre Chris Harris has returned to Newcastle Red Bulls.

The experienced midfielder began his professional career in the North East before joining Gloucester in 2019. Newcastle confirmed his return to the club in May.

Harvey Cuckson – Scarlets

Young lock Harvey Cuckson has joined the Scarlets permanently after previously spending time with the Welsh region on loan.

The former England age-grade international moves in pursuit of more regular senior rugby.

Mikey Summerfield – Ealing Trailfinders

Prop Mikey Summerfield has left Bath to join Championship side Ealing Trailfinders.

The former academy forward will continue his development with one of the strongest and most ambitious clubs outside the PREM.