Springbok loose forward Kwagga Smith has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2026 season following a serious knee injury
Double World Cup-winning flanker Kwagga Smith has backed the next generation of Springboks to continue to shine as anticipation builds for the historic Greatest Rivalry Tour against the All Blacks.
Speaking in Johannesburg at the official launch of the groundbreaking 2026 tour, Smith, who is currently sidelined with a season-ending knee injury, revealed that the intense internal competition within the Springbok setup is the primary engine driving the team's relentless success.
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus has rotated his charges seamlessly without losing their competitive edge or sacrificing results. Fresh faces have integrated into the system effortlessly, with rookie flanker Paul de Villiers making a major impact at blindside in the absence of veteran campaigners like Smith.
Indeed, Erasmus’ Boks have enjoyed a perfect start to their Nations Championship campaign, securing victories over England and Scotland in their opening two fixtures despite sweeping personnel changes.
