Springboks prop returns to Bulls
Jake White, Montpellier head coach
The Bulls have announced the signing of Springbok prop Marcel van der Merwe, who rejoins them after a four-year spell in the Top 14 with Toulon.
Former Springboks head coach Jake White, who is the Bulls’ new director of rugby, has made his intentions clear by signing the powerful yet mobile front-row, who will join the Pretoria-based outfit in July 2020.
Van der Merwe established himself at the Bulls when he made the move from the Cheetahs in 2014.
His performances during the 2014 Super Rugby campaign earned him a Springbok call-up and he went on to make seven Test appearances.
🗣️ "He left an indelible impression on any loosehead that came his way."
Planet Rugby's Greatest Professional XV: Tighthead prop. https://t.co/IxFPaUnCqT
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— Planet Rugby (@PlanetRugby) May 2, 2020
He also represented the Junior Springboks in 2010 and earned a South Africa A cap in 2016 against the French Barbarians.
The 29-year-old wore the Bulls jersey on 45 occasions, scoring six tries and he also ran out in the colours of the Blue Bulls in the Currie Cup.
Van der Merwe is looking forward to his return to the Bulls.
“I’m excited to confirm that I’ve signed with the Vodacom Bulls,” he said. “Loftus (Versfeld) and the Bulls have always had a special place in my heart and I look forward to coming back home. I’ll see you all soon.”