It seems rumours of John Smit’s playing days being behind him were just a shade premature, with the former Bok captain set to lead current club, Saracens, one final time before retiring.
After Sarries lost to Northampton in the Premiership semi-final on Sunday, Smit himself tweeted that he had reached the end of his time as a player, but the club has asked him to pull on the black and red jersey one last time to captain a young Saracens outfit against the SA Barbarians in London on Thursday.
Speaking of the upcoming game, Smit said, “A match between Saracens and the South African Barbarians is a fitting conclusion to my career. The South African Barbarians will have a number of young players in their team and it’s an opportunity for them to showcase their talents on the European stage.”
Nick Mallett will coach the SA Barbarians side.

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I hope Supersport doesn’t dissapoint us
Mmm – a chance to interview Nick for the Sharks coaching position?
@Bokhoring (Comment 3) : Good idea 😀
Johnny!!
@Bokhoring (Comment 3) : or convince him to change his mind about it….
would love to go to this, but my little baby is turning 8 on Thursday!
@robdylan (Comment 7) :
Take him (or her) with…
@Bokhoring (Comment 3) : Brilliant, they can sommer compose Plum`s DCM email and then fly down together!
Things are looking up guys!
