Bath Rugby have today confirmed the arrival of Leicester Tigers prop Francois van Wyk on a two-year deal from next season.
The South African prop joined the Tigers in 2021 after four years with Northampton Saints, but will bring his time at Welford Road to a close at the end of this campaign. During his seven year spell in the Premiership, the loosehead has amassed over 130 appearances, 84 for the Saints and 50 for Leicester. He has also had a stint with Super Rugby side Western Force, making 20 appearances.
He will look to add more competition to the loosehead spot at the Rec from next season alongside Beno Obano and Juan Schoeman. Thomas du Toit, normally a tighthead, can also play loosehead if needed.
Speaking on joining Bath, the 6ft 2in, 18 stone prop said: “From when I first spoke to Johann, it was clear to me that I wanted to join the project at Bath. I have always enjoyed playing at The Rec and look forward to joining up with the squad for next season.”
Johann van Graan, Bath’s Head of Rugby, also commented on the acquisition of van Wyk: “Francois will add to the power of our pack. He’s an experienced front row and experienced front rows are very valuable. I have been very impressed by Francois as a human being, and he will fit in very well at Bath.”
The loosehead prop played junior rugby for Western Province in his home city of Cape Town, before going on to play for Cape Town University side Ikey Tigers, where he played a key role in their title-winning 2011 Varsity Cup campaign.
Francois van Wyk becomes latest Bath Rugby signing
Van Wyk becomes the second new signing to join Bath in as many days. Yesterday, the club announced second-row forward Ross Molony would be joining the club from Leinster on a three-year-deal.
Commenting on the arrival of Molony, van Graan said: “Ross is a true professional and his journey in rugby is a testament to this. His work ethic and leadership are some of his key characteristics and I believe he will play a huge part in our journey in the next number of years. What struck me is the quality of a human being Ross is.”
