Duhan van der Merwe Turns Down South Africa Switch, Eyes Premiership Club Move
11/11/2024 05:31 AM
Rumours swirling about Duhan van der Merwe returning to a South African club? Not happening, if recent reports are to be believed.
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The Scotland winger, who was a standout in Sunday's showdown against South Africa at Murrayfield, looks set to take a different path.
Bath or Bust? Or Maybe La Rochelle?
Two frontrunners are making waves: Bath, where Van der Merwe could link up with Scotland's playmaker Finn Russell, or La Rochelle, the French powerhouse coached by none other than Ronan O'Gara, the Ireland fly-half legend.
Both clubs are in the mix to secure the services of the dynamic winger.
South Africa Move? Don't Count on It
Rapport, a South African outlet, claims there's no chance of Van der Merwe heading back to join the Stormers or the Sharks, despite previous speculation.
"It's unlikely that he will go to the Stormers or the Sharks," a source close to the situation said, adding that Edinburgh are fighting hard to keep their star player in the Scottish capital.
Dulene van der Merwe Drops a Bombshell
On a podcast appearance, Van der Merwe's mother, Dulene, poured cold water on any talk of her son joining a South African side. "That's definitely not true," she said emphatically when asked about links with the Stormers. But in true cliffhanger style, she added: "Watch this space."
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Wealthiest Rugby couples (Net Worth):
From high-profile partnerships to humble beginnings, these power pairs have amassed impressive fortunes while leaving a lasting legacy. With stories of childhood love, philanthropic missions, and royal connections, each couple brings their own unique flair to the game.
Here's a look at the top rugby couples whose bonds—and bank accounts—have made them iconic.
Johnny & Laura Sexton – The Dublin Dream Team (£6m)
From teenage sweethearts to one of rugby's wealthiest pairs, Johnny and Laura Sexton have captured fans' hearts as much as Johnny's kicks have clinched games. Their love story began at Rathgar Tennis Club, blossoming all the way to marriage in 2013.
With three kids cheering on dad from the sidelines, the Sextons are as iconic off the field as Johnny is on it. The couple's journey—from Saint Mary's College to University College Dublin—stands as a testament to commitment and love.
Siya & Rachel Kolisi – The Power Couple with a Purpose (£10m)
Siya and Rachel Kolisi's £10 million empire wasn't just built on rugby; it's infused with purpose. The Kolisis are widely admired for their philanthropic work, especially through the Kolisi Foundation, which uplifts underprivileged communities.
Although the couple recently parted ways, Rachel remains a key influence in Siya's life. Now back with the Sharks after a stint in France, Siya continues to value her steadfast support. Despite the split, their legacy as South Africa's "golden couple" lives on.
Mike & Zara Tindall – Royal Connections and Reality TV (£20m)
"Fridge" by nickname, royalty by association, Mike Tindall's wealth and fame go beyond rugby. Married to Zara Phillips, Queen Elizabeth II's granddaughter, Tindall has firmly planted himself in British pop culture. From breaking his nose eight times to breaking records in rugby, Mike's career has been nothing short of resilient.
Since retirement, he's taken his profile to new heights with appearances on shows like I'm a Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here and Bear Grylls: Mission Survive. His estimated £20 million fortune proves rugby and royalty make quite the combo.
Jonny & Shelley Wilkinson – A Hero's Quiet Empire (£22m)
Jonny Wilkinson isn't just a legend on the field; he's a legend in love too. After leading England to the 2003 Rugby World Cup victory, Wilkinson has kept a low profile with his wife, Shelley Jenkins.
They wed in 2013 on the scenic French Riviera, and now with a young son, they're embracing family life in the quiet lane. Worth £22 million, Jonny's legacy as one of rugby's finest is matched by his financial success and family's privacy.
Sonny Bill & Alana Williams – The Ring, the Romance, and the Riches (£20m)
Sonny Bill Williams, the Kiwi powerhouse, is famed not just for rugby but for his ventures into the boxing ring. Known for his versatility on the field and knockout power off it, he's carved a unique sports career.
His whirlwind romance with Alana Raffie, culminating in a four-week engagement, sparked as much intrigue as his sporting accomplishments. Now worth £20 million, the couple's success story includes rugby, league, boxing, and plenty of endorsements.
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