Benetton lock in South African-born maestro
CONTRACT EXTENSION: Benetton secured the services of one of their most influential playmakers on a long-term basis.
The Treviso-based side announced that Rhyno Smith has signed a contract renewal until June 30, 2028.
The South African fullback has become a symbol of the green-and-white franchise in recent history and extends his tenure with the Treviso-based team for another two years.
Smith joined the club in 2021, immediately demonstrating a strong bond with the green-and-whites and becoming a favourite among his fans.
Smith has carved out a very important role for himself in the side’s tactical chessboard.
Since the 2021/2022 season, he has scored a remarkable 390 points in 78 total matches with the Treviso club.
His scoring breakdown consists of 35 tries, 4 drop goals, 31 conversions, and 55 penalties.
All of this, seasoned with spectacular displays of skill.
The South African has integrated into the green-and-whites’ ranks from the very beginning, winning over fans with his outstanding performances.
A utility back of undisputed quality and talent, he is primarily used as a fullback but is also perfectly capable of playing as a flyhalf or winger.
His key technical attributes include high base speed, excellent handling, and excellent range: a combination that makes Smith a skilled marker.
He knows the United Rugby Championship well: He played for the Cheetahs from 2018/19 to 2020/21, making 17 appearances and scoring 10 tries.
In South Africa, he also played for the Durban Sharks between 2015/16 and 2017/18, scoring 13 caps and 1 try in Super Rugby, as well as 17 appearances in the Currie Cup.
Previously, he played for the Leopards from 2014 to 2016.
Rhyno is a key player in the green-and-white project.
The statistics speak for themselves: in recent seasons, he has contributed significantly to the team’s results.
Versatile, he has a great offensive impact and is capable of scoring tries and accumulating points, even with his feet.
Furthermore, he adds international experience, gained in high-level championships such as Super Rugby, URC and Currie Cup.
Worthy of note for him are also two appearances with the famous Barbarians team, the second of which materialised a couple of weeks ago.
“I came to Treviso wanting a different experience than the one I had in South Africa,” Smith said.
“I wanted to play in a new way and, above all, meet interesting people, immersing myself in a different culture along the way.
“I never imagined I’d find a new home here: a place so far from where I grew up, but one that has become a part of me thanks to the many memories I’ll cherish forever.
“On and off the pitch, in Treviso, I found an environment where I could play fearlessly, have fun, and rediscover my passion for the sport.
“It helped me rediscover the competitive edge that, for a while, I thought I’d lost. I thank the club, President Amerino Zatta, General Manager Antonio Pavanello, the fans, and, above all, my teammates for the trust they’ve placed in me over the years.
“Staying here was the easiest decision of my career. I believe with all my heart that the best is yet to come,” explained Smith after his new contract extension until 2028.
Antonio Pavanello, General Manager of Benetton, commented: “We are extremely happy to announce the renewal of Rhyno Smith, a player of unquestionable technical and human qualities.
“Rhyno has become a symbol of our club: he embodies the values, dedication, and spirit that distinguish Benetton Rugby.
“On and off the field, he is an example to his teammates and young athletes, an exemplary professional who perfectly embodies our team’s identity.
“His recent call-up to the Barbarians, for the second time, is a well-deserved recognition of his value and the work he has done over the years.
“On behalf of the entire club, we congratulate him and are proud to continue sharing this journey with him.”
