Franco Smith lures powerhouse South African flank to Glasgow
TRANSFER NEWS: Franco Smith is putting plans in place for next season, and it involves some South African muscle.
The Glasgow Warriors revealed that loose forward Ruwald van der Merwe has agreed to make the switch to Scotstoun from the Pumas on a two-year deal, subject to a visa.
He will link up with his new teammates following the conclusion of the Pumas’ 2026 Currie Cup campaign, becoming the first new arrival to put pen to paper with the Warriors ahead of next season.
The story continues below…
Ready to get stuck in 👊#WhateverItTakes ⚔️🛡️ pic.twitter.com/8mGuhCnsHd
— Glasgow Warriors (@GlasgowWarriors) March 31, 2026
“I’m incredibly excited and very grateful to have signed with Glasgow Warriors,” Van der Merwe told glasgowwarriors.org.
“I’ve followed the club for a while, and I never imagined I’d get the opportunity to be part of such a prestigious setup. I’m looking forward to giving my best and contributing wherever I can.
“I spoke to Franco before signing, who told me a lot about the environment and his coaching approach. What stood out is how much he values the individual and focuses on developing areas of your game that need improvement.
“I also spoke to Henco Venter, who had nothing but great things to say about the club and life in Glasgow, which made the decision even more exciting for me and my family.
“Supporters can expect a physical edge from me. Coming from South Africa, that’s something I take pride in.
“I enjoy carrying hard, using a mix of strength and speed, getting my hands free for offloads, and contributing physically on defence and at set-piece time.
“I want to make an impact in all areas and add as much as I can to the team.”
The story continues below…
Meet Ruwald, Warrior Nation 💪#whateverittakes ⚔️🛡️ pic.twitter.com/8l6J6FwWxj
— Glasgow Warriors (@GlasgowWarriors) March 31, 2026
Smith also had his say on the new signing.
“Ruwald is a player that we have been keeping an eye on for a while, having identified him as someone that we believe can bring real value to what we are aiming to build here,” said Smith.
“He is a strong carrier who brings a real work ethic to everything he does, and he is excited to become a Glasgow Warrior from next season.
“We know that the Warrior Nation will welcome him with open arms, and we look forward to welcoming him to Scotstoun later this year.”
A product of the University of the Free State, Van der Merwe first signed professional terms with the Pumas in 2022 after impressing in the Varsity Cup.
A year later, he was part of the Pumas squad that enjoyed a standout run to the Currie Cup Final, with only the Cheetahs denying Van der Merwe and his teammates the title.
Van der Merwe captained the Pumas to glory in the 2025 SA Cup, leading his squad to the title with an 11-match winning streak that culminated in a 39-14 win over the Griquas in the Grand Final.
