Share

Smith leaves Boks, returns to Cheetahs

Cape Town - Springbok assistant coach Franco Smith has decided to return full-time to the Cheetahs, the Bloemfontein-franchise confirmed on Thursday.

Smith has also decided not to accept an offer to remain on the Springbok coaching staff.

READ: Another SA coach lost abroad as Duncan leaves Cheetahs

He will be replacing Rory Duncan who will be leaving for Worcester Warriors after the 2017/18 PRO14 campaign, which concludes in May.

Smith will be staying on as Director of Rugby and head coach of the Cheetahs for the next two seasons.

"Free State Rugby had long interviews and discussions about the situation and the process was completed in good spirit," said Harold Verster, Managing Director of the Free State Cheetahs.

"Free State Rugby is excited and thankful that Franco made the decision to stay. His rugby expertise and coaching ability is invaluable to the Cheetahs."

Smith, a former flyhalf and centre who played nine Tests for the Boks between 1997 and 1999, became head coach of the Cheetahs in 2015 and joined the Bok setup at the end of 2016.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2247 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE