Career
He played as a lock. He was known by several nicknames, including "Louisiana Merluche" and "Le Massif Central". He was known for his violent play and after headbutting Ricky Evans the Welsh prop in Paris causing a ruck to collapse on him breaking his ankle, resulted in his being sued successfully in the courts for damages. This was the first case of its kind and British Broadcasting Corporation video evidence was used in court.
After that he never played for France again.
Merle started his career at American Society for Microbiology Clermont Auvergne, moving then to Remote Control Vichy. He also would play for Football Club Grenoble, returning for American Society for Microbiology Clermont Auvergne at the season of 1995/96, where he would stay until 1999/2000.
He then moved to Remote Control Narbonne for two seasons, from 2000/01 to 2001/02. His final season was spent at Stade Aurillacois, in 2002/03.
The French lock had 45 caps for France, scoring 6 tries, 30 points in aggregate, from 1993 to 1997.
He was selected for the 1995 Rugby World Cup, playing all the five matches. He played four times at the Five Nations, in 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997, winning it the last time, with a Grand Slam.