The transfer saga continues in South African rugby as another Lions player is set to join the Durban-based Sharks. This time, it is one-Test Springbok wing Edwill van der Merwe who is reportedly making the move.
Van der Merwe, who made his Springbok debut last year against Wales and scored a try before his season was cut short due to injury, was initially linked with a move to Sale Sharks in England. However, it now seems that he will be heading to Durban to join the Sharks.
His Lions teammate, Marius Louw, is also on the move but to Sale in Manchester following the conclusion of the United Rugby Championship season.
The Sharks have been busy bolstering their squad with former Lions players, including the Tshituka brothers, Vincent and Emmanuel, flyhalf Jordan Hendrikse, as well as Ruan Dreyer and James Venter. However, Venter is rumored to be heading to Europe at the end of the current season.
In Durban, Van der Merwe will join a star-studded backline that includes Bok stars like Jaden Hendrikse, Grant Williams, Lukhanyo Am, Andre Esterhuizen, Makazole Mapimpi, and Aphelele Fassi.
The 28-year-old wing will be looking to add to his one Test cap when Italy and Georgia visit South Africa in June and July. He will also have the opportunity to feature in the Rugby Championship against Australia, Argentina, and New Zealand, as well as in the Test matches in Europe in November.
Before joining the Lions in 2021, Van der Merwe played for Western Province and the Stormers, having matriculated from Paul Roos Gymnasium.
For more details on this transfer story, you can read the full article in Rapport.
