Springbok turns down SA offers
TRANSFER NEWS: Springbok Albertus ‘Kwagga’ Smith has turned down offers from South African teams and agreed to a new deal with Japan-based club Yamaha Jubilo.
According to Afrikaans newspaper Rapport, the 27-year-old had been in talks with both the Lions and Sharks but eventually opted to extend his Japanese contract by two years.
The newspaper reported that Smith will fly to Japan later this month to play for Yamaha Jubilo in training matches ahead of the Top League season.
Smith has been plying his trade in Japan since 2018.
Quand on lui a demandé “un geste de célébration”… 😂😂 pic.twitter.com/eUjh8bbE7E
— Rugby World Cup (@RugbyWorldCupFR) September 15, 2019
“I am very happy at the club,” Smith told Rapport.
“It has been a very uncertain time for the sports industry. Nobody knew what was going to happen with rugby here [in South Africa].
“However, due to the [initial chaos because of Covid-19] falling right in Japan’s off-season, you knew their Top League season would resume in December or January,”
The former Lions flank, who has played six Tests, remains eligible for Springbok selections.
“It’s a big advantage to play overseas and be granted permission to play for the Springboks,” Smith said.
“My goal is to play against the British & Irish Lions next year. It’s my big dream and I’ve placed all my focus on that. I’ll be working hard to achieve it,”
Source: Rapport
Related Articles:
Kings and SA Rugby already talking about new coach
Duane suffers the ignominy of being hacked
Conditions revealed for SA return to play
