SA scrumhalf with 'huge potential' signs for Van Graan's Bath
TRANSFER NEWS: Johann van Graan has bolstered his Bath squad for the 2025/2026 season by signing a South African scrumhalf.
On Tuesday, the English Premiership club announced the signing of Bernard van der Linde from the Bulls.
The 24-year-old will move to The Rec later this year on a two-year deal.
Educated at Menlopark High School, Van der Linde played rugby at age-group level with the Bulls before signing for the franchise’s senior team where he’s been in the set-up for the last six years, featuring in the Currie Cup, United Rugby Championship, and Champions Cup.
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𝗡𝗘𝗪 𝗦𝗜𝗚𝗡𝗜𝗡𝗚 ✈️ 🇿🇦
We are thrilled to share that Bernard van der Linde has signed with Bath Rugby and is set to join the club at the start of next season!
Welcome to the Blue, Black and White, Bernard 🤝 #OurJourney pic.twitter.com/sYPgALjOD0
— Bath Rugby (@BathRugby) February 4, 2025
“Bernard is a player with huge potential,” said Van Graan, who is Bath’s Head of Rugby.
“I saw him play as a junior and he impressed me then, both on and off the field.
“On the field, he is a running nine and loves the physical part of the game. Off the field, he is diligent and loves the game of rugby.
“I am really looking forward to seeing his growth at Bath over the next few years.”
Meanwhile, Van der Linde added: “As a small kid it has always been rugby all the way. There was never a thought of doing anything else in life.
“I remember me and my brother playing rugby in the backyard with the neighbours almost every single day after school and training my passes with my dad every time I was bored at home.
“Things I remember from a young age is that my mum and dad have always been very supportive of me and have been to almost every game I played if it was possible. So, I can’t wait for them to come and watch their first game in Bath when the time comes.
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