A player who can play multiple positions across the back five of the scrum, including Number 8 and second row, van Velze has over a century of Premiership appearances to his name after spells with Northampton Saints, where he won the Premiership in 2014, and Worcester Warriors.

At the latter, he was given the captaincy in his first season, leading the Warriors to promotion back to the Premiership at the first time of asking. He retained his leadership role throughout his seven years at Sixways.

Prior to his time in England, the 34-year-old twice captained the Blue Bulls’ junior side to the Vodacom Cup as well as skippering South Africa Academy, South Africa Under-19s and Under-20s.

Whilst in Pretoria, he became a key member of the Bulls’ Currie Cup squad before making his Super Rugby debut in 2010.

Head of Rugby Johann van Graan said: “GJ has a great amount of Premiership experience which will prove influential for the squad over the season to come.

“His leadership ability is a part of his character that I value and his ability to play four positions across the back five is very valuable through a season.”

Van Velze adds experience and leadership to Bath Rugby's pack options

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