Speculation in the Free State Media would have us believe that Springbok and Free State Cheetahs flank, Juan Smith, looks likely to make his return to the rugby field in France in 2013.
Juan has been sidelined with a severe achilles injury, requiring a number of operations, and has missed most of the 2011 and 2012 rugby season. Juan has not played since his injury in Super Rugby against the Bulls in February 2011. This has sparked speculation that his rugby career or at least the quality rugby career he has enjoyed is effectively over.
Achilles injuries are very difficult to fix or heal and takes ages to heal properly.
At 31, he is heading into the twilight of his career and is apparently considering a return to rugby in France, unless a huge offer is made by a South African side to keep him in South Africa.
French Top 14 club, Bayonne, is apparently after his signature.
Juan Smith has played in 69 Tests for South Africa, the last being at Twickenham against England in November 2010, and he is one of the most revered blindside flankers in history in south Africa.
Juan Smith says “I’m ready to play again, but with the Currie Cup nearing its end, I don’t want to put pressure on myself.”