Celebrate world champion Springbok Juan Smith’s birthday with a look back on his illustrious career.
Matching the legacy created by Andre Venter in the Bok No 7 jersey was never going to be an easy task, but Juan Smith emerged in the early 2000s as the man who would make the jersey his own.
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Smith was one of the most complete loose forwards ever to wear the Springbok jersey. His best qualities made him a stand out in an era stacked with world-class flankers. His ball-carrying power and relentless work-rate were among his best attributes, and in defence he never stood back for anyone.
Smith went on to represent South Africa in 70 Tests and was part of Jake White’s 2007 World Cup-winning squad.
The Bloemfontein bruiser made his debut for South Africa as a replacement in the 29-25 victory over Scotland in Durban in 2003 and made a further appearance in the second Test a week later. His first start for the Springboks came in the Tri-Nations match against Australia where he was No 8.
His first taste of Rugby World Cup action came in 2003 when he played in four games in a tournament where South Africa lost in the quarter-finals to New Zealand.
In 2009 he played all three Springbok Tests against the British & Irish Lions as the Springboks won the series 2-1.
Today he celebrates his 44th birthday.
Photo: Lee Warren/Gallo Images/Getty Images
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