Cliffe Dekker, the South African ally of DLA Piper, is to merge with local rival Hofmeyr Herbstein & Gihwala, in a deal that is set to create the country’s largest law firm.

The combined firm will operate as Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr starting in September, boasting 127 partners in Johannesburg and Capetown. It is thought the combined practice will be the largest law firm in South Africa, with Cliffe Dekker contributing 65 and 62 hailing from Hofmeyr.