The South African was delighted at joining the Zurich Premiership finalists and said: “I am really looking forward to beginning a fresh challenge playing abroad.

“Bath had an amazing Zurich Premiership campaign last season and I am looking forward to being a part of, and adding to, what is an ambitious, talented and motivated squad.

“These are exciting times for me and I am really looking forward to joining up with my new team-mates and linking up with Robbie Fleck once again.”

Director of rugby Jack Rowell added: “Frikkie is an outstanding signing for us as he is a quality player.

“He is currently excelling in the Currie Cup and joins Bath with a proven record at the highest level.

“He is a forceful player whether at outside-centre or on the wing and his recruitment along with that of Joe Maddock and the returning Brendon Daniel will add yet another attacking option,” he told the official club website, www.bathrugby.com