Injured Springbok loose forward Kwagga Smith remains highly optimistic on his road to recovery as anticipation builds for the upcoming, historic Springboks vs. All Blacks "Rugby's Greatest Rivalry" tour. Seen here: (l-r), Gcobani Bobo, Lukhanyo Am, Kwagga Smith. Picture: Michael Sherman/IOL
As the reality of Kwagga Smith’s serious knee injury hit home this week, the sight of the Springbok loose forward hobbling in a knee brace and on crutches was a tough pill for fans to swallow. Yet, the player himself remains remarkably optimistic about his rehabilitation.
"I injured my ACL and my meniscus in Japan. I had surgery seven weeks ago, so yeah, we’re on the road to recovery. Gutted that I’m missing this series, [but I am still] really excited for it—I think it’s going to be massive,” Smith said.
Smith sustained the injury in May while playing for his Japanese club, the Shizuoka Blue Revs. The 33-year-old will be sidelined for at least another four months, meaning he will miss out on crucial game time ahead of the new season leading into the Rugby World Cup next year.
However, spending time on the sidelines might just provide the veteran with a renewed sense of motivation.
