Raised in Kylemore outside Stellenbosch, Edwill van der Merwe honed his craft at the famous Paul Roos Gymnasium, one of South Africa's great rugby schools, before entering the Western Province system.
He represented Western Province from 2016 and made his Super Rugby debut for the Stormers against the Sunwolves in June 2019. A move to the Lions in 2021 proved the making of him, his consistent URC form earning national recognition, and in 2025 he signed for the Sharks, making his debut in the 2025/26 URC season and adding EPCR Champions Cup rugby to his resume.
Van der Merwe made a spectacular Springbok debut against Wales at Twickenham in June 2024, scoring a stunning solo try and earning Man of the Match. With five tries in his first five Tests, the elusive wing brings proven international finishing power to the Sharks back three for 2026/27.
