Italy have reportedly set their sights on one of the Sharks’ talented flyhalves.
Jean Smith already qualifies to represent the Azzurri thanks to his birth in Treviso.
According to Rapport, Smith – son of former Springbok pivot and current Glasgow Warriors coach Franco Smith – is on Benetton’s radar and could join the club after the Vodacom URC season. Because he was born in Treviso, the young playmaker does not need to qualify via residency and is immediately eligible for Italian Test selection.
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A former Benetton junior himself, Smith spent six years in the club’s youth structures before completing his schooling at Grey College. He later represented South Africa at U16, U18 and U20 level, and made his senior Sharks debut last year.
Highly rated for his game control, distribution and calm goal-kicking, Smith has developed into one of Durban’s brightest backline prospects. Losing him would be a blow, but the Sharks remain well stocked at flyhalf with Jordan Hendrikse, Siya Masuku and Junior Bok Vusi Moyo on their books.
Meanwhile, the Sharks – who recently released Springbok centre Lukhanyo Am on sabbatical to Japan – may also grant fullback Aphelele Fassi a similar break as he continues recovering from a serious leg injury.
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