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Kwagga Smith turns his back on Sevens
By Online Editors
Openside Kwagga Smith is turning his back on Sevens to pursue a career in XVs full time it has been revealed.
Smith will not appear in the Commonwealth Games for the Blitzboks, as it was decided that he couldn't risk injury at the Sevens while fulfilling a role for the Lions in Super Rugby.
Smith told Super Sport's Brendan Nel: "We all sat around a table and spoke about it. We said that if Jaco Kriel is ready to play then it makes sense, and I can go. But it doesn’t help I go there and I get an injury and then we are sitting here with a problem at the Lions.”
“So I said to coach Neil where my goals are, and what will happen if something like that happens. It is unlucky that Jaco had to get an operation again, so I think it is not going to happen that I will be released to play in the Commonwealth Games.”
If Smith is to fulfil his ambition of playing for the Springboks, he feels he must row in behind the Lions to be in with a shout of getting selected.
"Ja no, definitely that is why we sat around the table and made decisions. For me personally, it doesn’t help I want to become a Springbok but I already missed one game against the Bulls and then I don’t become a Springbok,” he concluded.
The 90kg backrow would become one of the lightest Springboks forwards in decades should he make the team.
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Latest Comments
I can’t speak for Stuart, but the WB process has been dragging on for a fair while now… and I know he’s had three other solid offers in the meanwhile to coach at club/provincial level.
His ultimate aim is to coach at international level again.
Go to commentsThe debate was in the context of the Lions squad. Multiple club and national coaches have chosen him (considerably) more often at 7, so there’s enough people fancy he’s good in the role.
The win rates are vitally important for this Lions tour. ‘01/’05/’09 were losses. ‘17 was a draw and ‘21 was a utter disgrace that stained the game. And a loss. They’ve won one test series in 24 years. And just 12 months ago people were worried about how uncompetitive Australia might be. Talk about added pressure.
Farrell is a straight forward, no nonsense type of guy. He’ll probably pick conservatively and with guys in their proven positions. He hasn’t the time for bolters or shock calls. Not with the touring schedule they have.
You haven’t remotely offended me, chief. Not at all.
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