The Stormers are reportedly trying to bring a Springbok hooker to Cape Town along with Bok tighthead prop Wilco Louw.
According to Rapport, John Dobson’s side have set their sights on Marnus van der Merwe, who is also on the radar of the Sharks, Lions and English club Saracens.
The 28-year-old made his Test debut against Georgia in Nelspruit last month. He currently plays for the Scarlets in Wales, having joined them from the Cheetahs in 2024, and is contracted until mid-2026.
Rapport says the Stormers’ interest comes in the wake of Joseph Dweba’s departure to Exeter Chiefs. Without Dweba’s PONI (Player of National Interest) contract – a deal where a player’s provincial salary is partially funded by SA Rugby – he became too expensive to retain.
Van der Merwe is expected to secure PONI support if he stays in South Africa, making a return home far more feasible.
ALSO: Stormers newbie Ackermann champing at the bit
Meanwhile, Rapport has confirmed that Louw has signed a four-year deal and will join the Stormers in mid-2026 after leaving the Bulls.
The move will also bring the 31-year-old closer to his farm in the Cederberg.
Photo: Johann Meintjes/Gallo Images
The post Stormers target Bok hooker appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
The Stormers are reportedly trying to bring a Springbok hooker to Cape Town along with Bok tighthead prop Wilco Louw.
The post Stormers target Bok hooker appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
