Springbok loose forward swaps Sale Sharks for English champions

The South African has represented his country six times making his debut against France in 2017, with his most recent appearance coming against Argentina in 2021.

The 30-year-old, whose usual position is Number 8, can also play in the second row or as flanker and will offer his utility across the pack.

Coming from a rugby family, du Preez's father Robert Snr played scrum-half for the Springboks. His twin brother Jean-Luc plays in the Top 14 for Bordeaux and his older brother Robert Jnr currently plays alongside him at Sale Sharks.

"I'm really excited to be joining Bath. It's a great club with huge ambition and incredible support behind it, and I can't wait to get started and contribute to what the squad is building," said Du Preez.

Bath's Head of Rugby, Johann van Graan, added: "Our DNA is being tough to beat and Dan du Preez fits that mould perfectly.

"A ball carrier, a set piece expert and an excellent defender, we are looking forward to seeing what Dan will add to our group in the coming years.

"His test and English PREM experience will be very valuable and, most importantly, he is a brilliant, family man."

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