'Nothing is set in stone': Sharks' Bok sidesteps transfer talks

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: It seems the Sharks might be losing another Springbok.

There have been various media reports linking Springbok prop Thomas du Toit to Premiership club Bath.

According to the rumour mill, Du Toit is set to join Bath when his contract with the Sharks concludes at the end of the season.

In December it was reported that Du Toit has been in negotiations with Lyon but fellow South African and Bath coach Johann Van Graan looks set to persuade the star to head to the UK instead.

Du Toit’s possible move has gained extra momentum with the news of Siya Kolisi, who has been granted an early release from his contract in order to join Racing 92.

Kolisi who joined the Sharks in 2021 will head to the Top 14 club after the 2023 World Cup.

Press conference with Thomas du Toit as he shares his thoughts ahead of Saturday’s game against Union Bordeaux Bègles💪#FearTheFin #HeinekenChampionsCup #SHAvUBB pic.twitter.com/xQ0JTXb1zg

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) January 12, 2023

Speaking to reporters, Du Toit was very coy about his future plans.

“I think it’s important that everyone here at the union focuses on what is happening right now,” Du Toit told reporters when asked about the possible transfer.

“[Kolisi’s exit] is not something that has been spoken about a lot because our focus is on winning the URC, and hopefully the Champions Cup as well as; that’s our primary focus.

“The other stuff is really taking a back seat to what is important for us.

“Regards to my future, I haven’t signed anything so my contract just ends at the end of this season, so that’s all the information I can basically give you.

“There’s nothing that’s set in stone yet.”

Great session 👊 #FearTheFin pic.twitter.com/t0M6JAkoLM

— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) January 11, 2023

Turning his focus to the upcoming European Champions Cup match against Bordeaux, Du Toit labelled it as very vital.

The Sharks have been unbeaten in the Champions Cup, recording wins over Bordeaux and Harlequins.

This weekend they have a chance to make it three in a row especially with home ground advantage.

“Winning at home is important, and winning this match is vital for us in the competition,” Du Toit said.

“We firmly believe that if we get good points this weekend, and hopefully more next weekend [against Harlequins], then we’ll obviously sit very pretty in the competition.”