The Glasgow Warriors have landed a significant addition to their roster with the signing of Ruwald van der Merwe, a formidable Pumas loose forward, who is set to join the Scottish club after the 2026 Currie Cup. The announcement made this Tuesday confirms a two-year deal for the 27-year-old, pending visa approval.
Van der Merwe, a standout player since his Varsity Cup days with Shimlas and a Currie Cup finalist in 2023, has proven his mettle, captaining the Pumas to a victorious 2025 SA Cup with an impressive 11-match winning streak. His leadership on the field was instrumental in clinching a 39-14 win over Griquas in the final.
"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,"
stated Franco Smith, head coach of Glasgow Warriors.
He further added, "He is a strong carrier who brings a real work ethic to everything he does."
Expressing his enthusiasm, Van der Merwe shared,
"I'm incredibly excited and very grateful to have signed with the Glasgow Warriors. 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."
He also noted the positive discussions he had with Smith about the coaching environment and the personal development focus that the club maintains.
Van der Merwe also mentioned his conversation with former player Henco Venter, who praised the club and lifestyle in Glasgow, further solidifying his decision to join the Warriors. He promised the Warriors fans a robust style of play, emphasizing his South African roots, which include a blend of strength, speed, and strategic physicality.
The addition of Van der Merwe is expected to significantly bolster the Glasgow Warriors as they prepare for the upcoming season, adding not just skill and strength but also proven leadership and a winning mentality to the team.
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The Glasgow Warriors have landed a significant addition to their roster with the signing of Ruwald van der Merwe, a formidable Pumas loose forward, who is set to join the Scottish club after the 2026 Currie Cup. The announcement made this Tuesday confirms a two-year deal for the 27-year-old, pending visa approval.
Van der Merwe, a standout player since his Varsity Cup days with Shimlas and a Currie Cup finalist in 2023, has proven his mettle, captaining the Pumas to a victorious 2025 SA Cup with an impressive 11-match winning streak. His leadership on the field was instrumental in clinching a 39-14 win over Griquas in the final.
"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,"
stated Franco Smith, head coach of Glasgow Warriors.He further added, "He is a strong carrier who brings a real work ethic to everything he does."
Expressing his enthusiasm, Van der Merwe shared,
"I'm incredibly excited and very grateful to have signed with the Glasgow Warriors. 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."
He also noted the positive discussions he had with Smith about the coaching environment and the personal development focus that the club maintains.Van der Merwe also mentioned his conversation with former player Henco Venter, who praised the club and lifestyle in Glasgow, further solidifying his decision to join the Warriors. He promised the Warriors fans a robust style of play, emphasizing his South African roots, which include a blend of strength, speed, and strategic physicality.
The addition of Van der Merwe is expected to significantly bolster the Glasgow Warriors as they prepare for the upcoming season, adding not just skill and strength but also proven leadership and a winning mentality to the team.