Veteran Springbok Cobus Reinach adamant that age is just a number
Springbok scrumhalf Cobus Reinach is ready to prove he hasn't lost his edge when he runs out in the green and gold against Wales in Round 3 of the Nations Championship on Saturday.
Kwagga Smith welcomes competition for places being created by in-form Paul de Villiers
Smith has been injured since May when he hurt his knee playing for the Shizuoka Blue Revs in Japan's League One but remains firmly in the Springboks' plans, having been part of all the alignment squads this year.
"I haven't had an injury this big in my whole career. So for me, obviously, I'm just taking it step by step, following the medical staff and what they're telling me to do, taking it easy. We're not rushing because we want to make sure that when I am back, I will be back for the last bit of my career," said Smith.
He was also one of the players chosen to speak at the launch of the 2026 Rugby's Greatest Rivalry Tour in Johannesburg on Wednesday, showing he is still seen as a leader and key member of the squad.
His absence paved the way for De Villiers to get a spot in the team for the opening matches of the Nations Championship and the young Stormers star has stepped up in a big way with three impressive performances against the Barbarians, England and Scotland.
"The young boys are coming through. I put myself in their shoes when I was younger; you get that opportunity, and you give it your everything," Smith said.
"These four Test matches against the All Blacks will be the proper test. It is probably going to be an experienced All Black back three.
"The competition is good. If there is healthy competition, you know that when you get back, you have to be in top form. It is better for your game."
Smith revealed he was impressed with De Villiers from the very first Springbok alignment camp they attended together.
"I saw him actually when we were at the alignment camp when I popped in at the hotel, and he was one of the first guys to talk to me and ask for advice," he said.
"That is special because it shows he is a person willing to learn, and that is really important. For Rassie, it is about players who are buying in, willing to learn and learning the ways he wants you to play.
"He has been playing really well. He has a great future in front of him."
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