Double World Cup Winner Kwagga Smith Set to Return for Springboks' Tests Against Ireland

Kwagga Smith, a double Rugby World Cup winner, has confirmed that he will be ready to play for the Springboks in their two upcoming Tests against Ireland. The matches are scheduled for July 6 and 13 in Pretoria and Durban, respectively.

Smith has been recovering from a groin injury that required surgery at the beginning of the year. His return is highly anticipated, especially after he revealed in an interview with Rapport that he is back in South Africa and fully recovered. 'I'm back in South Africa and definitely ready for the [Irish] Tests,' Smith stated. 'I trained 100% comfortably with my team in Japan a month ago.'

The Springboks, reigning World Champions, are set to benefit significantly from Smith's return. His veteran status and experience are expected to provide an edge to the team, particularly in the absence of Jasper Wiese. Wiese is serving a six-game suspension, leaving a gap in the No. 8 jersey that Smith is well-positioned to fill.

Other contenders for the No. 8 position include Evan Roos, Cameron Hanekom, and Elrigh Louw. However, Smith's proven track record and versatility across the back row make him a likely choice for the starting lineup.

Smith's injury, an adductor tendon rupture, occurred in January while he was playing for the Shizuoka Blue Revs in Japan's Rugby League One season. The initial prognosis predicted a five-month recovery period, and Smith appears to have met this timeline successfully.

The Springboks are also dealing with other injuries, particularly to Damian Willemse and Steven Kitshoff, who are set to miss the two internationals against Ireland. Smith's return thus comes at a vital time for the team.

The Springboks prepare for their Tests against Ireland, the inclusion of Kwagga Smith bringing a boost in morale and capability. His presence on the field is expected to be a significant factor in the team's performance.

Smith's readiness to return to international rugby marks a positive development for the Springboks as they aim to maintain their dominance in the sport.

Key Takeaways

• Kwagga Smith, a double Rugby World Cup winner, is ready to play for the Springboks against Ireland.
• Smith has recovered from a groin injury that required surgery at the beginning of the year.
• His return is a significant boost for the Springboks, especially with Jasper Wiese serving a 6-game suspension.
• Smith's experience and versatility make him a likely choice for the No. 8 position.
• The Springboks face Ireland in two Tests on July 6 and 13 in Pretoria and Durban, respectively.