Munster Rugby and the Irish Rugby Football Union have confirmed the signing of Springbok hooker Marnus van der Merwe on a two-year contract starting in the 2026/27 season. The move remains subject to a valid work permit.

The 29-year-old made a strong impression on his international debut last July, scoring two tries against Georgia. He later helped the Springboks secure the Rugby Championship title, featuring in victories over New Zealand and Australia.

Van der Merwe hails from Mpumalanga. He played underage rugby with the Pumas before moving to the Cheetahs, where he made his PRO14 debut in 2018. He won the Currie Cup with the Cheetahs in 2023.

He joined Scarlets in the summer of 2024 and made an immediate impact. In his first season in Wales, he earned a place in the URC Elite XV alongside Craig Casey and Tom Farrell. Scarlets supporters also named him Player of the Year.

His form during the 2024/25 campaign earned a call-up from Rassie Erasmus. He made three appearances for the Springboks last year. Since his debut in September 2024, he has made 38 appearances for Scarlets.

Speaking about the move, van der Merwe said:

“I’m excited and honoured to join such a prestigious club with a proud rugby history. I want to finish the season strongly with Scarlets before taking on this new challenge with Munster.”

Munster Rugby General Manager Ian Costello welcomed the signing.

“We are delighted to secure a player of Marnus’ calibre. He will strengthen our front row. Over the past two years, he has ranked among the best hookers in the URC, which led to his Springbok call-up.

“He brings physicality and aggression. He is strong at the set-piece and effective over the ball. He has also shown that he can perform at international level.

“Marnus is ambitious and driven. We believe he will fit seamlessly into our playing group. We look forward to welcoming him to Munster this summer.”