The Toyota Cheetahs are delighted to have the centre Franco Smith Jr on their books as they turn their attention to the Toyota Challenge which kicks off in Bloemfontein next week.

The Newport-born Smith is no stranger to Free State rugby after completing his schooling in Bloemfontein at Grey College and he also played for the provincial at all levels of age group rugby. In addition, his father Franco Smith played for the Free State as a flyhalf and inside centre, while as a coach he led the Cheetahs to two Currie Cup titles in 2016 and 2019. His uncle, MJ Smith, in turn played flyhalf for the Free State for many years.

The 24-year-old Smith joined the Cheetahs from the Italian outfit, Zebre, while he was also on the books of the Treviso-based Benetton Rugby.

Earlier in the week, Smith, told OFM Sport that he is delighted to join the team which the family holds very close to their hearts.

“Yes, I'm back and I'm very excited to be back at this historic club,” said Smith.

“For me personally it's a massive honour and privilege to come back and fight in the Free State Cheetahs jersey again. It's a team and a club we as a family have always cared for. To be able to contribute to this club is very special for me personally. Obviously knowing how much both my uncle and dad have cared for the Free State Cheetahs.”

The former Springbok flyhalf, Franco Smith, is now the Glasgow Warriors head coach - Morgan Piek

The Cheetahs coach, Izak van der Westhuizen, in turn told OFM Sport that they are delighted to have the midfielder in their ranks and added that the player has slotted in seamlessly.

“I think he has slotted in very quickly already and he has picked up experience in Europe as well,” said Van der Westhuizen.

“He has learned a lot over there and you can see from the start he is organising things quickly and he has got a good pass. He will slot in easily with us.”

Smith comes for Evardi Boshoff who has headed back to Wales where he will play for the Ospreys again, this time it’s for the duration of the United Rugby Championship.

Meanwhile, the Cheetahs will kick-off their Toyota Challenge campaign on Wednesday night when they tackle the Western Force in Bloemfontein. This match at the Toyota Stadium will kick-off at 19:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport