Scarlets fighting to keep Springbok Van der Merwe

Marnus van der Merwe scored two tries against Georgia on his South Africa debut

Dwayne Peel says Scarlets are fighting to keep hooker Marnus van der Merwe after his club exploits made him a Springbok.

The 28-year-old earned international honours with South Africa in the summer after an impressive first season in Llanelli.

Van der Merwe scored two tries on his Test debut against Georgia in July and featured twice when helping Rassie Erasmus' squad win the Rugby Championship, coming off the bench in the wins against Australia and New Zealand.

The hooker's contract expires next summer and he has already been linked with a return to South Africa, while Munster and French clubs are also said to be monitoring him.

Scarlets are in talks with the forward about extending his stay in west Wales after he was a leading figure in last season's top-eight finish.

"You talk about overseas talent and he is definitely one who has helped our squad," said head coach Peel.

"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."

The Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) has proposed drastic changes to the professional game with four clubs potentially cut to three or two.

That is having an impact on the recruitment and retention plans of Scarlets, Cardiff, Dragons and Ospreys.

"At present it's very difficult for anyone to make any commitments, that's the truth of it," said Peel.

"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."

Marnus van der Merwe made 23 appearances in his first season at Scarlets

Van der Merwe joined Scarlets from Cheetahs in the summer of 2024 and played in 23 of 24 games to be named as supporters' player of the season.

Those performances caught the eye of Erasmus as Scarlets helped create another international player.

"It's fantastic when one of your players represents his country," said Peel, who is without Wales hooker Ryan Elias for the first block of the season after summer elbow surgery.

"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 in to get 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."

Peel says Van der Merwe's qualities meant he "fitted the bill" for Scarlets.

"We knew we wanted someone abrasive and full of intent and he was one that stood out," he added.

"He is exactly what we thought he was going to be, that is the honest truth of it."

Van der Merwe is in contention for Friday's game against Stormers in Llanelli (19:45 BST).