Van der Merwe makes call on playing future
NEWS: Scotland international and British and Irish Lion Duhan van der Merwe has committed his long-term future to Edinburgh by signing a multi-year contract.
The deal will see the wing remain in the Scottish capital until the 2027 World Cup at least.
Van der Merwe’s extension is a major coup for Edinburgh, fending off interest from teams across the globe, with Scotland’s current top try-scorer delighted to be staying at a side that has ‘become his home’.
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On re-signing, Van der Merwe said: “I’m delighted to commit my future to Edinburgh.
“This club and city are my home. My wife and I love it here and I’m incredibly proud to represent the city and our supporters.
“I’d be lying if I said other clubs didn’t express interest, but Edinburgh is home for me, and my connection to the club and our supporters were a massive driver in my decision to re-sign.
“I joined Edinburgh as a boy and the club has made me into the player I am today. I’m eager to continue writing my story here. I owe it to the club and the fans to give my all in the years to come.”
Van der Merwe puts pen to paper ahead of a massive run of games for Edinburgh.
Edinburgh face Bayonne in Round 2 of the Challenge Cup this coming Friday evening before back-to-back 1872 Cup derbies against Glasgow Warriors.
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The wing is a true big game player and often shines brightest in the 1872 Cup derbies where a famous brace of intercepted scores secured a memorable intercity win back in December 2018.
He backed that up a 90 metre winner in last year’s decisive derby, with Van der Merwe on track to make his 100th appearance in the opening leg of the 1872 Cup at Hampden Park.
He continued: “It will be a privilege to reach 100 appearances for such a historic club.
“Playing in the 1872 Cup is always special and I can’t wait to represent this team when we return to Murrayfield for the deciding leg later this month.”
The wing has been a key figure for Edinburgh since arriving from Montpellier in 2017.
After notching up 10 tries in his debut season, Van der Merwe quickly became a fan favourite, known for his electric pace, powerful running and ability to score spectacular tries.
With 45 tries in 98 games so far, Van der Merwe is closing in on Edinburgh’s all-time try scoring record of 69 set by Tim Visser, establishing himself as one of the most prolific try-scorers in URC history.
His impact extends beyond club level. He has been a key player for Scotland since he made his try-scoring Test debut in a home victory against Georgia in October 2020.
The wing’s blistering form saw him earn a 2021 British and Irish Lions call-up, during which he had the distinction of starting in all three Tests.
He continued to make history during the recent tour to The Americas when he crossed the line for his 28th Test try to become Scotland’s record try-scorer.
Van der Merwe grabbed his 30th Test try in the recent Nations Series victory over Australia to remian one try ahead of club teammate Darcy Graham (29) on the all-time list.
Edinburgh head coach Sean Everitt added: “We are absolutely thrilled to secure Duhan’s long-term future at the club.
“He is a world-class talent who brings so much to the team. His ability to break tackles, score tries and create opportunities for others is invaluable.
“Duhan’s experience will also be vital in mentoring our young back-three players.
“He’s someone that our academy players look up to and I’ve got no doubt he will be able share the skills and x-factor he has developed over time to those players that will pull on the Edinburgh jersey soon.
He continued: “Retaining a player of Duhan’s calibre is a testament to the club’s ambition as well as the environment we’ve created at Edinburgh .
“His impact as a player is undeniable and we’re excited to have him continue his journey with us.
“His commitment to the club is a significant boost for the team and our supporters ahead of a big run of fixtures for the club.”
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