In a significant move within the South African rugby scene, Edwill van der Merwe, the 28-year-old Springboks winger, has confirmed his departure from the Lions at the end of the 2024/2025 season.
Van der Merwe’s decision follows a notable 2023/24 season, during which he earned a call-up to the Springboks squad and made his debut in South Africa’s first Test match of 2024. He scored a crucial try in a victory against Wales at Twickenham Stadium before facing an unfortunate injury that limited his appearances thereafter.
The winger recently found himself weighing his future as his contract with the Lions was set to expire. Despite receiving a fresh offer to re-sign with the Johannesburg-based team, reports emerged that he had put pen to paper with the Sharks, a team based in Durban and famously known for its competitive edge.
According to Rapport, Van der Merwe's move signals not only his commitment to the Sharks but also a burgeoning trend among players heading to Durban. Notably, other esteemed players like Jordan Hendrikse, Emmanuel Tshituka, and Ruan Dreyer have also made the journey from the Lions to the Sharks ahead of the 2024/25 season.
While Van der Merwe's departure brings fresh challenges for the Lions as they transition their roster, it also bolsters the Sharks’ backline considerably. The team has been criticized in past seasons for lacking depth in the wing positions, often resorting to shifting players around. This time, however, with Van der Merwe joining, head coach John Plumtree will have access to an impressive starting backline composed entirely of Springboks, including stars like Grant Williams, Hendrikse, Makazole Mapimpi, Andre Esterhuizen, Lukhanyo Am, and Aphelele Fassi.
As the Sharks strengthen their ranks, they will also see departures within their lineup. Ntuthuko Mchunu, a loosehead prop, will be making a bold move to the Stormers, taking over the crucial position left by retired two-time World Cup winner Steven Kitshoff. Additionally, flanker James Venter is off to Gloucester in the Premiership, and Jeandre Labuschagne is reportedly headed to Japan, where he will sign with the Canon Eagles.
Despite being 35 years old, Makazole Mapimpi shows no signs of slowing down, remaining a key player for the Sharks and recently signing a contract extension with the team. This continuity, alongside newcomers like Van der Merwe, positions the Sharks as a formidable force in the upcoming season.
With Van der Merwe's speed and agility on the wing, the Sharks look poised not just to improve their chances in the league, but to also maintain their reputation as a breeding ground for top talent. As the new season approaches, fans and analysts alike are keenly watching how the integration of fresh talent impacts the dynamics of the team.
