Duhan van der Merwe wins the World Rugby Try of the Year Award

29 Oct 2023

Duhan van der Merwe has been named as the winner of the 2023 World Rugby Try of the Year Award for his memorable solo effort against England.

Picking up the ball inside his own half at Twickenham, the winger slalomed through the English defence before touching down, marking one of the most impressive individual Scotland tries ever seen.

Scotland went on to win the match 29-23 with van der Merwe scoring a second try in the game to secure the victory.

Fans were asked to vote for their favourite try of 2023 with Duhan fighting off competition from France’s Damian Penaud, Ireland’s Hugo Keenan and Fiji’s Vinaya Habosi.

After winning the award Duhan van der Merwe said: “It’s a massive honour to have scored the World Rugby Try of the Year.

“That win against England was memorable for the entire team and to have contributed with two tries, especially one that people remember so fondly, is something I’m really proud of.

“I’ve watched it back a few times and still can’t believe I managed to run it in from that distance. It’s probably the best try I’ve ever scored.

“Thanks to everyone for voting for me and I can’t wait to pull on the Scotland jersey next year.”

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