Springbok goes into 'Exile'

TRANSFER NEWS: London Irish continue to dip into the South African market to bolster their playing roster.

The Exiles confirmed that Springbok Marcel van der Merwe has signed on the dotted line.

It follows a rash of contract announcements in the past week - which include the signing of another seasoned South African - Bernhard Janse van Rensburg.

The experienced prop, Van der Merwe, put pen to paper on a deal with Declan Kidney's side and will join up with his new teammates ahead of the start of the 2021/22 season.

The 30-year-old South African international - who has seven Springbok caps to his name - joins from La Rochelle, whom he joined on a short-term deal earlier this year.

Previously, Van der Merwe enjoyed successful stints back home in his homeland with the Cheetahs and the Bulls, before making just shy of 100 appearances at French Top 14 side Toulon.

Speaking about his arrival at the Exiles, Van der Merwe expressed his delight.

"I'm very excited - it's a new chapter in my career," the Bok prop said.

"London Irish are a Club that are moving in the right direction, so it's an exciting opportunity for me. The timing feels right.

"I've played English teams quite a lot throughout my time in France, so I know what to expect of the league and everything it throws up. I can't wait to get going with London Irish."

Director of Rugby, Declan Kidney, added: "Marcel is a key addition to the squad ahead of the start of the 2021/22 season.

"He will bring great experience and quality to our pack and will complement the existing players we've already got in the forwards.

"We're really pleased that he has decided to join the Club and we're looking forward to him joining up with us in August for his pre-season."