Smit's future is on the line

- Do you John Smit should return to the Sharks?

By Zayn Nabbi

John Smit's future at the Sharks will be discussed on Thursday when the franchise's procurement committee meet at the Absa Stadium to decide whether he will indeed return to the coastal side.

The burly front ranker was named as the Bok captain for 2008 by national coach Peter de Villiers on Wednesday and is keen to return to South Africa to play his rugby.

Smit is currently in France on a two-year deal with Clermont, but he has expressed his desire to play domestically.

SA Rugby are currently negotiating with the French Top 14 club side for an early release, which would allow Smit to play in the Currie Cup this year.

Sharks Commercial Manager Rudolf Straeuli was cagey about Smit's possible return, but did confirm that the organisation's procurement committee would be meeting today to discuss contracting.

"I can't really comment because I haven't heard anything from SA Rugby, but we will be meeting tomorrow (Thursday) to discuss this issue."

While Straeuli was saying nothing, it is apparent that the committee has some tough choices to make as the Sharks have completed their planning for the year.

If Smit were to return to the Shark Tank it is debatable whether he would usurp the rampaging Bismarck du Plessis as the No1 hooker. The only way to accommodate the two would be to rotate the big men in the front row.

Whether Du Plessis, who has patiently served his apprenticeship over the past three years under Smit would play second fiddle, is a moot point as he has his own aspirations.

While Smit himself would want to play as much rugby as possible being the Springbok captain. Age is another point Straeuli and Co have to ponder over and with Du Plessis being 23 years old and Smit 29, the franchise will have to look at where the future of the Sharks lies.

There's no question that Smit's leadership and experience is priceless, but a decision would have to be made in the best interest of the players and franchise.

If both could agree to alternate then the Sharks' choice would be made easy.

Commenting about his return home Smit said: "The Springboks will always be my priority, but it is important that any move back to South Africa to play domestic rugby, is done in a professional and mature way.

The French have been fantastic to me and they understand my desire to play for the Springboks. It is a situation that now will be dealt with on an administrative level between South African rugby and Clermont," said Smit.

"For now my focus is on getting back to match fitness and making a contribution to Clermont's season," he added.

Smit is currently recovering from a knee injury.

De Villiers stressed that he would do everything possible to bring Smit home.

"We must do what is best for Springbok rugby and my intention is to ensure the best available squad is selected," he said.

"I will explore all avenues for this to happen."