Van der Merwe commits to the capital

The deal will see one of world rugby’s most exciting and dangerous attacking threats remain in the Scottish capital until Rugby World Cup 2027 at least.

Van der Merwe’s extension is a major coup for the capital club, fending off interest from teams worldwide, with Scotland’s current top try-scorer delighted to be staying at a club that has ‘become his home.’

On re-signing, Van der Merwe said: “I’m delighted to commit my future to Edinburgh Rugby. 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 run of massive games for the capital outfit.

Edinburgh face Bayonne in Round 2 of the EPCR Challenge Cup this Friday night before back-to-back 1872 Cup derbies against Glasgow Warriors, with the deciding leg – already the fastest selling 1872 Cup clash in club history – taking place at Scottish Gas Murrayfield on Saturday 28 December (kick-off 3pm).

Van der Merwe is a true big game player and so often shines brightest in the 1872 Cup derbies where a famous brace of intercepted scores secured a famous intercity win back in December 2018.

Van der Merwe backed that up a 90m winner in last year’s decisive derby, with Van der Merwe on track to make his 100^th 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 Scottish Gas Murrayfield for the deciding leg later this month.”

The winger has been a key figure for Edinburgh since joining the club from Montpelier in 2017. After notching up 10 tries in his debut season, Van der Merwe quickly become a fan favourite, known for his electric pace, powerful running and ability to score spectacular tries.

With 45 tries in 98 appearances 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 BKT United Rugby Championship history.

Van der Merwe’s impact extends beyond the club level. He has been a key player for Scotland since he made a try-scoring international debut in the home win against Georgia in October 2020.

Van der Merwe’s blistering form then brought about a 2021 British & Irish Lions call-up, during which he had the distinction of starting in all three Test matches.

The winger continued to make history during the recent summer tour to The Americas when he crossed the whitewash for his 28^th Scotland try to become Scotland’s record try-scorer.

Van der Merwe grabbed his 30^th Scotland score in the recent Autumn Nations Series victory over Australia to remain one try ahead of clubmate Darcy Graham [29] on the all-time list.

Edinburgh Rugby 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 Rugby.

“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.”