Scottish wing sensation Duhan van der Merwe is making headlines once again as rumours swirl around a potential move to French giants La Rochelle.
Reports in France suggest that Ronan O’Gara, head coach of the Top 14 club, is keen to bring the 6’4” powerhouse to the Atlantic coast when van der Merwe’s contract with Edinburgh Rugby expires at the end of this season.
Van der Merwe, known for his brutal strength and relentless speed, has been a game-changer for both Edinburgh and the Scotland national team since joining in 2017.
With his barnstorming runs and fearless play, he quickly cemented his place as one of Europe’s most formidable wingers, scoring a stunning 17 tries in his 29 appearances for Scotland.
If the transfer goes through, van der Merwe would add serious firepower to a La Rochelle squad already brimming with talent, bringing his elite ball-carrying ability and a high work rate to one of France’s most ambitious clubs.
Fastest rugby union players of all-time
#14. Jonny May:
Jonny May is an English rugby player known for his speed and agility. With a time of 10.71 seconds per 100 meters, he has proven to be a formidable winger, capable of leaving defenders in awe.
Jonny May of Gloucester Rugby during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby Match between Gloucester Rugby and Harlequins at Kingsholm on 17 February. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
#13. Jonah Lomu:
Jonah Lomu was a legendary rugby player from New Zealand, often regarded as one of the greatest to have played the game. With a time of 10.70 seconds per 100 meters, his combination of size, strength, and speed revolutionised the sport.
#12. Doug Howlett:
Doug Howlett is a former rugby player from New Zealand who was celebrated for his speed and try-scoring ability. With a time of 10.68 seconds per 100 meters, he was a key player in the All Blacks' success.
#11. Joe Rokocoko:
Joe Rokocoko is a former New Zealand rugby player who was known for his speed and try-scoring prowess. With a time of 10.66 seconds per 100 meters, he thrilled fans with his blistering pace and agility.
#10. Seabelo Senatla:
Seabelo Senatla is a South African rugby sevens player renowned for his speed and try-scoring ability. With a time of 10.60 seconds per 100 meters, he is considered one of the fastest players in the rugby sevens format.
#9. Perry Baker:
Perry Baker is an American rugby sevens player who has made a name for himself with his exceptional speed. With a time of 10.58 seconds per 100 meters, he is a key player in the United States national rugby sevens team.
#8. Bryan Habana:
Bryan Habana is a legendary rugby player known for his speed and agility. With a time of 10.40 seconds per 100 meters, he has made countless electrifying runs and scored numerous tries throughout his career.
#7. Tonderai Chavhanga:
Tonderai Chavhanga is a former rugby player from Zimbabwe who showcased his speed during his career. With a time of 10.27 seconds per 100 meters, he was a threat to opposition defenses whenever he had the ball.
#6. Carlin Isles:
Carlin Isles is widely recognized as one of the fastest rugby players in the world. With a time of 10.13 seconds per 100 meters, his sprinting ability is unmatched, earning him the nickname "the fastest man in rugby."
#5. Rieko Ioane:
Rieko Ioane is a dynamic rugby player who possesses impressive speed on the field. With a time of 9.35 seconds per 100 meters, he is known for his ability to outpace defenders and score crucial tries.
#4. Kieran Marmion:
Kieran Marmion is a skilled rugby player who has showcased his speed with a time of 9.34 seconds per 100 meters. His quick bursts of acceleration make him a valuable asset to his team.
#3. Louis Rees-Zammit:
Louis Rees-Zammit is a rising star in rugby known for his speed and agility. With a time of 9.31 seconds per 100 meters, he has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the game.
Louis Rees-Zammit of Gloucester Rugby during the Gallagher Premiership Rugby match between Gloucester Rugby and Saracens at Kingsholm Stadium on June 4 2022 in Gloucester, England. (Photo by Tom Sandberg/PPAUK)
#2. Adam Radwan:
Adam Radwan is a talented rugby player who has demonstrated his speed with a time of 9.21 seconds per 100 meters. His quickness and agility make him a formidable opponent on the field.
Adam Radwan of England during the Autumn Nations Match between England and Tonga at Twickenham Stoop on 6 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
#1. Christian Wade:
Known for his incredible speed, Christian Wade has proven himself to be one of the fastest rugby players in the world. His sprinting abilities have shocked spectators as he blazes across the field, leaving defenders in his wake.
Christian Wade of England (Wasps) who scored 3 tries against Barbarians - Photo mandatory by-line: Gareth Davies/Pinnacle - Tel: +44(0)1363 881025 - Mobile:0797 1270 681 - VAT Reg No: 183700120 - 31/05/2015 - SPORT - RUGBY UNION - England v Barbarians - Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London, England.