SOUTH AFRICA

Smit out of tour

Monday 07th July 2008

Homeward bound: John Smit

The Springboks will be without captain John Smit for the remaining Tri-Nations away Tests against New Zealand in Dunedin and the Wallabies in Perth due to a groin strain, it was confirmed on Monday.

The hooker sustained the injury during the opening Tri-Nations Test against the All Blacks on Saturday at the Westpac Stadium.

Smit underwent a scan on Monday, which confirmed he had sustained a strain of his hip adductor. He returns to South Africa on Monday and his replacement, Western Province and Stormers hooker Schalk Brits, is set to arrive in Wellington later the same day.

Andy Marinos, Manager of National Teams, described Smit's injury as a massive blow.

"John is in my view the most respected and experienced international rugby captain at the moment so his absence is a big setback for the team," said Marinos.

"We have two tough tour matches remaining but are fortunate to have in Bismarck du Plessis and Schalk Brits two very good replacements."

Victor Matfield will captain the team in the absence of Smit.