Veteran Netherlands all-rounder Roelof van der Merwe is set to appear in another T20 World Cup at the age of 41, continuing a remarkable international career that began with South Africa before his switch in allegiance. In an exclusive interview with The Sunday Guardian, the left-arm spinner reflected on his “glamorous” Indian Premier League journey, his experiences sharing dressing rooms with Virat Kohli, Virender Sehwag, and Anil Kumble, and his enduring connection with cricket in India.
The Netherlands team will play their next match against Namibia at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, marking their return to Indian soil after the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup. For Van der Merwe, the visit is a special one, as he is back in Delhi — the city where he spent two IPL seasons. During his time in the league, he shared the dressing room with Indian greats like Virat Kohli and Virender Sehwag, memories he still holds close as he prepares for another global tournament.
🔁 One of cricket’s most wild rides:
🇿🇦 Started with South Africa
🇳🇱 Then rocked World Cups for the Netherlands
🏏 Even played for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2009
💪 Still bullying line-ups at 40+Roelof van der Merwe is built different. 🚀#T20WorldCup #PAKvsNED pic.twitter.com/garXnI97Sb
— Led Tasso 🏏⚽️🎾 (@nil_duck) February 7, 2026
Q: How does it feel reflecting on your IPL journey?
Van der Merwe: My IPL experiences were absolutely glamorous and priceless. I had the chance to play for teams like Royal Challengers Bangalore and Delhi Daredevils (now Delhi Capitals) and share the field with legends such as Virat Kohli, Virender Sehwag, and Anil Kumble. Those memories are unforgettable.
Q: What is your impression of cricket in India?
Van der Merwe: The passion for cricket in India is unmatched anywhere in the world. The love and support fans show for the game is unbelievable and incredible to experience firsthand.
Q: Do you have any memorable off-field experiences from your time in India?
Van der Merwe: Absolutely! I really enjoyed the high-speed tuk-tuk rides. Racing through traffic was thrilling and such a fun part of visiting India.
🔁 One of cricket’s most wild rides:
🇿🇦 Started with South Africa
🇳🇱 Then rocked World Cups for the Netherlands
🏏 Even played for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2009
💪 Still bullying line-ups at 40+Roelof van der Merwe is built different. 🚀#T20WorldCup #PAKvsNED pic.twitter.com/garXnI97Sb
— Led Tasso 🏏⚽️🎾 (@nil_duck) February 7, 2026
Q: How do you view subcontinental conditions for cricket?
Van der Merwe: Subcontinental conditions are always unique. Pitch behaviour, heat, and humidity—especially in cities like Chennai—can significantly affect gameplay.
Q: Can you give a quick snapshot of your cricket journey so far?
Van der Merwe: Sure! I started with South Africa, then represented the Netherlands in multiple World Cups, played for Royal Challengers Bangalore in IPL 2009, and even at 40+, I’m still competing at a high level.
Netherlands will be playing their next game against Namibia on 10th February at Arun Jaietley Stadium.
Also Read:
