JUAN SMITH’S REMARKABLE return to the highest levels of rugby has continued with a call-up to the South Africa squad preparing for the 2014 Rugby Championship.
18 months after confirming his retirement from the sport due to long-standing issues with his Achilles tendon, the 33-year-old has been drafted into the Springboks’ group in place of injured lock Victor Matfield.
Four unsuccessful operations on his Achilles between 2011 and 2013 had seen Smith lose hope of playing on professionally, but having hung up his boots, the former Cheetahs back row was approached by a doctor from Bloemfontein who offered to operate and get Smith back on the field for free.
In September, 2013, the South African came out of his six-month retirement to sign a one-year contract with Top 14 outfit Toulon, where he had passed a series of medical examinations.
Smith’s form in France last season was superb, as he helped the French club to a Heineken Cup and Top 14 double. His remarkable comeback has taken another step with a call-up for South Africa, with whom he won the 2007 World Cup.
Our need at this stage is to draft in a player who can cover lock and loose forward, and we feel Juan is the right man for the job,” said Boks coach Heyneke Meyer.
“I spoke to him on various occasions and he’s comfortable with playing in the second row again if the need arises. However, as a number of our loose forwards have had a very high work load this season, it’s good to have someone such as Juan who can also provide cover in those positions.
“Furthermore he is a brilliant exponent in the lineouts and will bring experience and leadership to the squad. We wanted to involve him in June already as I really want to work with him, but he was not 100% fit and asked not to be considered.
“Juan has been in sublime form and recently won the very tough French Top 14 league and the Heineken Cup with Toulon. I’ve always held him in very high esteem and I know he will add value to our squad.”
Matfield is expected to miss South Africa’s opening game of the Rugby Championship against Argentina on August 16, but should return thereafter.
