Former Sharks and Cheetahs fullback Rhyno Smith needs special permission to play Test rugby for Italy.

The 32-year-old has been one of Benetton’s most influential performers since arriving in Treviso, and by July 2026 he will have completed five years in Italy – the residency period required to represent his adopted nation.

However, Smith played in two tournaments for the Blitzboks in 2018, which means his path to Test rugby is not straightforward.

“The [Italian] union hasn’t invited me to training camps or anything yet, but we’ve already talked about my eligibility and how we can make it work,” Smith told Rapport after extending his Benetton deal to 2028.

“I know I can write a letter to World Rugby and ask if I can qualify. And there are people who have already done that.

“It helps that I will have been in the country for five years next year. The fact that it has been seven years since I played for the Blitzboks also helps because I played so little.”

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Smith says he must use the Olympic eligibility route to “uncap” himself, as he has no Italian ancestry to fall back on.

“I can’t go through World Rugby. I don’t have any family – like a grandmother or grandfather – born in Italy.”

He admits his Test prospects – and hopes of playing at the next World Cup – will ultimately hinge on Italy coach Gonzalo Quesada.

“At 34 in 2027, who knows? It depends if the coach wants me. All I can do is keep playing well.”

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