South Africa's most-capped captain — led the Springboks to World Cup glory in 2007.
John William Smit was born in Pietersburg, South Africa in 1978. He captained South Africa in 83 Tests — a national record at the time — including his 2007 Rugby World Cup victory in France. He played both hooker and prop at Test level. His leadership of the Springboks through his dominant 2007-2009 period — including a series victory over the British & Irish Lions — produced one of the finest individual captaincy records in Test rugby. He was named World Rugby Player of the Year in 2009.
Best Known For
Rugby World Cup 2007
Honours & Achievements
Career Honours
- Rugby World Cup 2007
- South Africa captain 83 Tests
- Super Rugby Champion
Career Journey
Timeline
1978
👶 Born in Pietersburg, South Africa
2011
🏁 Retired from professional sport
🏟️ Sharks
🏟️ Bulls
🏆 Rugby World Cup 2007
🏆 South Africa captain 83 Tests
🏆 Super Rugby Champion