Franco Smith

The Toyota Free State Cheetahs have offered Shimlas coach Franco Smith the job as head coach of their Currie Cup side.

Ryno Opperman, chairperson of the Free State Cheetahs Company’s board, confirmed the news.

The 42-year-old Smith was earlier contracted as backline coach of the Free State Cheetahs’ Currie Cup team, but after leading Shimlas to their maiden Varsity Cup title, the Cheetahs want to promote him to head coach.

“A written offer is being drawn up for Franco to serve as Currie Cup head coach from the 2015 competition,” said Opperman.

Following his heroics with Shimlas, Smith is in high demand elsewhere and he still has to decide on whether he will accept the Cheetahs’ offer.

“The offer made to Franco from the Free State Cheetahs – in cooperation with Shimlas – is a good, market-related one,” said Opperman.

Should Smith accept the Cheetahs’ offer, current Currie Cup head coach Rory Duncan would be promoted to a Director of Rugby position.

Naka Drotske is still employed as Super Rugby coach of the central franchise.

Sport24