Marnus van der Merwe, a Springbok hooker noted for his power and set-piece ability, has agreed a two-year move to Munster ahead of 2026/27, pending work permit approval
Munster and the IRFU have confirmed the signing of Springbok hooker Marnus van der Merwe on a two‑year deal that runs from the 2026/27 season, pending a valid work permit.
Why Munster moved for him
Van der Merwe, 29, brings recent provincial and international experience that bolsters Munster’s front row.
He’s a hooker who combines traditional set‑piece strengths — accurate lineout throwing and solid scrummaging — with genuine mobility around the park, a high work‑rate in defence and a knack for linking play in close quarters. That blend fits neatly with Munster’s emphasis on set‑piece control and a hard, close‑range tempo.
A quick career snapshot
– Development: Came through the South African provincial pathway, beginning in Mpumalanga and progressing via the Pumas.
– Domestic success: Earned club honours with the Cheetahs and lifted the Currie Cup in 2026.
– European step: Moved to the Scarlets in summer 2026 for his first season outside South Africa, where strong performances saw him voted Scarlets Player of the Year and named in the URC Elite XV.
– International emergence: Broke into Test rugby in 2026 — scoring twice on debut against Georgia — and then featured in the Rugby Championship as the Springboks claimed key wins over New Zealand and Australia.
What he offers Munster
Munster’s recruitment team highlighted three clear selling points: recent club form, physicality and set‑piece reliability. General manager Ian Costello pointed to his scrum presence and consistent lineout delivery, plus dependable work at the breakdown. Officials expect him to compete for the starting hooker spot and to add depth across match‑day squads, particularly during congested domestic and European periods.
How Munster will integrate him
The club has outlined a phased plan to bring van der Merwe up to speed:
– Early focus on conditioning and alignment with Munster’s scrummaging techniques.
– Targeted set‑piece work, pairing him with experienced forwards for live scrums and coordinated lineout practice.
– Managed game time across competitions to build continuity without overexposure.
Coaches will also manage his workload carefully to lower injury risk while accelerating his match readiness.
Practicalities and next steps
The contract is conditional on administrative clearance: medicals, visa and the work permit must be finalised before relocation. Van der Merwe will finish the season with the Scarlets before joining Munster in Ireland. Once immigration and medical formalities are complete, the club will confirm arrival dates and preseason plans. If the paperwork comes through, Munster expect van der Merwe to bring immediate set‑piece stability and added competition to their front row.
