Duhan van der Merwe Opens Up About Lions Disappointment
Duhan van der Merwe, Scotland’s record try-scorer, expressed his surprise at his international achievements since joining Edinburgh in 2017. The South African-born winger is set to earn his 50th cap for Scotland against the United States this Saturday, five years after his debut against Georgia in October 2020.
Duhan van der Merwe’s Remarkable Journey
At just 30 years of age, Van der Merwe has become a prominent figure in Scottish rugby, boasting 32 tries in 49 appearances. Reflecting on his early days, he admitted he never expected to reach this milestone. “It’s an unbelievable feeling,” he stated in anticipation of his landmark cap.
From Raw Talent to Record Holder
Van der Merwe joined Edinburgh as a relatively inexperienced player, yet his hard work has propelled him to elite status. He acknowledged the contributions of coaches who have aided his development over the years, saying, “It shows the hard work I’ve put in over the last couple of years.”
Memorable Moments in a Scotland Jersey
Among his standout performances, Van der Merwe highlighted several key games. “Any game against England is special,” he remarked. He specifically mentioned his winning try against France during his first Six Nations in 2021 as a significant highlight. Scoring on his debut against Georgia also remains etched in his memory.
Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations
As Van der Merwe prepares for the future, he remains focused on maximizing his remaining playing years. “I’m not getting any younger, am I?” he quipped. His optimism for personal growth and further contributions to the team is evident. “I believe I can still develop my game,” he noted.
Disappointment with Lions Tour
Van der Merwe, who has participated in one World Cup and two British and Irish Lions tours, shared his disappointment about not playing in any of the three Tests in Australia earlier this year. “It was obviously bittersweet,” he reflected. Yet, he found joy in the overall experience, especially being part of a victorious squad in front of fans.
- 50th cap for Scotland against the United States
- 32 tries in 49 games
- Debut: October 2020 against Georgia
- First Six Nations: 2021
- Highlighted games: England, France, and Georgia
Duhan van der Merwe continues to embody resilience and ambition. As he approaches this significant milestone, his journey stands as an inspiration to many aspiring athletes.
