Cape Town - A final decision regarding the playing future of Springbok flank Juan Smith will now only be made at the end of January.

According to the Volksblad website, the 31-year-old - who has missed most of the last two seasons due to an Achilles injury - will decide at the end of this month on his rugby future.

Should Smith not endure any pain after the Cheetahs' field sessions, he looks likely to delay his planned move to France until a later stage in his career.

Sport24 reported in September last year that Smith is likely to sign up with French Top 14 side Bayonne, but it appears the Springbok will likely stay on in South Africa for now.

The recent birth of his third child, CJ, seems to have played a big role in his decision to stay in South Africa for a longer period. Volksblad also understands that should Smith be declared fit and decide to resume his playing careeer, he will do so for the Cheetahs in Super Rugby.

The 69-Test veteran hasn't played since he got injured playing Super Rugby for the Cheetahs against the Bulls in February 2011, while his last Test for the Boks was against England at Twickenham in November 2010.

The Cheetahs will resume their pre-season schedule from next Monday.