WINGER Duhan van der Merwe has become the first Worcester Warriors player to find a new club on a permanent basis.

The British and Irish Lion has returned to previous club Edinburgh Rugby following becoming unemployed on Wednesday.

The company that employs the players and staff at Warriors was liquidated in court over a winding up petition on Wednesday morning, therefore terminating all contracts.

Van der Merwe becomes the first to land a new deal and goes back to Scotland to join Edinburgh in the United Rugby Championship.

The Scotland international scored 32 tries in 67 appearances for Edinburgh after joining from Montpellier in 2017 and joined Worcester for the start of the 2021/22 campaign.

He went on to score eight tries in 17 appearances for the club before having to leave Sixways.

"I’d like to thank the Worcester fans and staff for all their support during this difficult period, it’s something I’ll never forget," said van der Merwe.

"Edinburgh is home and it’s a club I have a special connection with. Many of the players and staff are like family to me and I’m hugely excited to return and get started once again.

"I’ve kept tabs on the club and it’s clearly in a really positive place. It’ll be special to make my ‘second debut’ for the team – running out at the new stadium in front of the Edinburgh supporters will be an amazing feeling. I can’t wait to get started."

Head Coach Mike Blair was pleased to secure the signing of the star winger.

"I’d first like to send my thoughts to all those impacted at Worcester and to all players, staff and supporters affected," he said.

"Duhan is a phenomenal athlete and rugby player who’s showcased his abilities at the highest level. He developed significantly in his three years here and we’re looking forward to continuing that together.

"He’s very much one of our own and we’re really pleased he’s coming home.

"It’s an exciting development for the entertaining, attacking brand of rugby we’re building at the club and something I’m sure supporters will be thrilled about too."