Bok bomb squad stalwart's season over
INJURY UPDATE: The Springboks have been dealt another hefty blow following a season-ending injury to one of their most impactful players.
Juggernaut Kwagga Smith will miss the Springboks’ jam-packed 2026 season after sustaining a serious knee injury whilst doing duty for his Japan Rugby League One club BlueRevs, according to News24.
Smith had been used extensively off the bench for the Boks and often made a significant impact on the outcome of matches.
The 63-time capped flanker will be sidelined for approximately six months, which will have Rassie Erasmus scratching his head regarding his planning for the season.
Smith’s injury could open the door for the likes of Paul de Villiers and Emmanuel Tshituka to debut and for Evan Roos and Cameron Hanekom to stake their claim in the green and gold.
The Boks will open their season against the Barbarians in Gqeberha on June 20, followed by their Nations Championship opener on July 4 against England.
Erasmus’s troops will then face Tests against Scotland and Wales before facing the All Blacks in the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series.