Coach Dwayne Peel says the Scarlets are doing everything possible to hold onto in-form Springbok hooker Marnus van der Merwe.

Van der Merwe’s rise was one of the standout stories of the last Vodacom URC season. The former Cheetahs rake became a fan favourite in Llanelli for his abrasive carrying and work-rate before earning a call-up to Rassie Erasmus’ Springboks.

The 28-year-old made an instant impact on debut, scoring twice against Georgia in Nelspruit, and earning two more Test caps during the Boks’ Rugby Championship triumph.

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But with his contract expiring at the end of the current URC campaign, the Sharks, Stormers, Munster and Clermont are reportedly circling for his signature.

Peel, though, insists the Scarlets haven’t given up hope.

“You talk about overseas talent and he is definitely one who has helped our squad,” Peel told the BBC. “He’s abrasive, he’s a ball-carrier for us and his performances have shown that in what he’s given us on the field.

“There will probably be interest in Marnus, there’s no doubt about that. Hopefully things will work out and he will be able to stay longer, but who knows at this present stage.”

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The Welsh region faces uncertainty off the field as the Welsh Rugby Union considers plans to cut its four professional teams to as few as two – a move that has cast a shadow over recruitment and retention at the Scarlets, Cardiff, Dragons and Ospreys.

“At present it’s very difficult for anyone to make any commitments, that’s the truth of it,” Peel admitted. “It’s not just Marnus, there are a lot of players we are speaking to at the minute. I am sure if the opportunity arises, hopefully we will be able to move on something.”

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Van der Merwe was named the Scarlets’ Player of the Season for 2024-25 after 23 standout appearances, capping a breakthrough campaign that caught the attention of Erasmus and the Bok selectors.

“It’s fantastic when one of your players represents his country,” said Peel. “As a club, him coming over from the Cheetahs last year, playing URC and getting the chance to represent the Springboks is a good story for us as well.

“We are proud of the effort that has gone into getting him there, and the effort he has put in. I am delighted for him, he’s a good man and has worked hard and contributed massively on the field.”

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Photo: Johan Orton/Gallo Images