van der Merwe extends Sharks stay

The Sharks have announced that hooker Akker van der Merwe has signed a two-year contract extension with the Durban-based side.

The lively hooker signed with the Sharks having helped the Lions to back to back Super Rugby finals. 

The 26-year-old then helped his new side to the Currie Cup Final where they were beaten by Western Province.

Van der Merwe made his Super Rugby in 2014 and made his 50th appearance in the final earlier this year.

He has also represented the Leopards and had a short stint in France with Racing 92. 

van der Merwe has not played Test rugby yet but represented the Barbarians in 2016 and 2017.

We're proud to announce that Akker van der Merwe will be with us until 2019! #OurSharks pic.twitter.com/THsEMIwODe

— The Sharks (@TheSharksZA) December 7, 2017