The Vodacom Bulls have confirmed the signing of Springbok loose forward Kwagga Smith on a three-year deal. The 33-year-old, who featured in both the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup-winning squads, brings a wealth of experience to a franchise already well-stocked in the back row.
Smith suffered a major knee injury in May 2026, tearing his ACL and meniscus while playing for Shizuoka Blue Revs in Japan. The setback ruled him out for the remainder of the 2026 season, but medical experts have since cleared him to return to play at the end of December. "I'm already jogging," Smith said. "I miss the rugby, but I'm feeling good. My wife is pregnant, due in January, so the timing of joining the Vodacom Bulls is perfect."
Bulls coach Johan Ackermann, who previously worked with Smith at the Emirates Lions, welcomed the reunion. "As a youngster, he showed character and fight and integrity," Ackermann said. "He's a team man who has grown into a stalwart, and it's been a privilege to watch his career unfold and establish himself as one of the best back rows in world rugby. Wherever he goes, he makes a difference, and I look forward to him contributing both on and off the field."
Smith made his name in sevens, winning Commonwealth Games gold with the Blitzboks in 2014 and an Olympic bronze medal in Rio in 2016. He moved to Japan in 2018 and has spent eight years with Yamaha Júbilo, now rebranded as the Blue Revs, while maintaining his place in the Springbok set-up. His honours include Rugby Championship titles in 2019, 2024 and 2025, and the 2021 series win over the British & Irish Lions. He has played more than 60 Tests.