PREM giants Bath make a last-ditch effort to poach Sale Sharks' star player, Dan du Preez, following Siya Kolisi's departure. The Sharks, a URC side, seek to strengthen their back-row after Kolisi's return to Cape Town with the Stormers. Du Preez, the twin brother of Jean-Luc, a forward at Bordeaux-Begles, was a target for the Sharks, close to a deal for the 2026/27 season. However, Bath enters the race, aiming to hijack the move, seeking to bring the Springbok to the West Country from Sale. While Du Preez differs from Kolisi, he fits the Sharks' need for a big ball-carrier. Bath, always seeking new talent, views Du Preez as a valuable addition to their squad. The Sharks, seeking more trophies, are in good form, highly favored for the Investec Champions Cup. Du Preez's ambitions are key; his presence in England doesn't exclude him from the Boks, but Erasmus prefers players in South Africa. With the Rugby World Cup near, a strong Sharks campaign could convince Erasmus. Du Preez's international career, marked by six caps, includes a 2017 debut under Allister Coetzee and a start in Erasmus' debut against Wales, though his last appearance was in the 2021 Rugby Championship due to injuries. His impact for Sale is undeniable, and Bath now competes with the Sharks for his signature ahead of the 2026/27 season.
