Springbok Marnus van der Merwe Ireland-bound on two-year deal

Munster have added some Springbok flavour to their squad for next season with the signing of Marnus van der Merwe on a two-year deal.

The 29-year-old is a four-time Springbok, with his time in green and gold including a showdown with the Barbarians, a rumble with Georgia, and then two Rugby Championship outings against New Zealand and Australia, all of which took place in 2024.

The hooker scored twice in his Test debut against Georgia and contributed to wins in all four of his international fixtures, helping the Springboks break a Rugby Championship and Freedom Cup drought.

While a work permit is yet to be granted, Munster Rugby General Manager Ian Costello hopes the new addition will help fortify the club’s forward game, with Van der Merwe’s body of work at Scarlets over the past two seasons impressing mightily.

“We are delighted to have signed a player of Marnus’ calibre ahead of next season, and he will add to the strength of our front row,” Costello said.

“He has been one of the best hookers in the URC over the past two years, resulting in a call-up to the Springboks squad.

“He is a physical, abrasive hooker, very strong in the set-piece, excellent over the ball, and now has demonstrated his ability to perform at international level.

“Marnus is passionate, and extremely ambitious and has the qualities that will make him a really good fit to our playing group. We look forward to welcoming him to Munster this summer.”

The Mpumalanga product won a Currie Cup title in 2023 with the Cheetahs, and was selected in the URC Elite XV in just his rookie season in Llanelli. He was also named the club’s Player of the Year.

The man himself was hesitant to look beyond the task at hand, with Scarlets battling away just three points out of last place on the URC table, but did express his excitement to be Munster-bound.

“I’m excited and honoured to be joining such a prestigious club, with such a proud rugby history. I want to finish the season strong with the Scarlets, before tackling this new challenge with Munster.”