Career
His regular playing position is lock, although he can also operate as a flanker. He also joined the Sharks on loan for the 2013 Super Rugby season. Van der Merwe has been included in several Springbok squads since June 2012 and finally made his debut in the 2013 Rugby Championship match against New Zealand.
He left the Lions to join Irish side Ulster prior to the 2014-2015 Pro12 season.
He signed a two-year deal starting on 1 August 2014.