A 2007 World Cup-winning Springbok has been recognised by former Test referee Nigel Owens as one of rugby’s most incredible players he ever refereed.
The Welshman has gained something resembling cult status after refereeing for 17 years before finally hanging up his whistle in international rugby.
Renowned for his witty putdowns of players getting in his ear too frequently, Owens compiled his best of the best for Ruck.co.uk who he deems to have been the easiest to deal with on the pitch.
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John Smit’s quiet diplomacy helped the Boks build a reputation as one of the most feared teams than at any time since winning the World Cup in 1995.
Smit is not only the fourth most-capped Springbok of all time (111) but also holds the record for the most matches as Bok captain (83).
On engaging with Smit and his selection, Owens said: “He led the Springboks to success at the 2007 World Cup in France and against the 2009 Lions and is probably one of the greatest captains I have dealt with. He’s a good man and was a very good player at hooker.”
CELEBRATING CENTURIONS: John Smit
Nigel Owens’ Best XV to referee – 15 Israel Folau (Australia), 14 Stuart Hogg (Scotland), 13 Brian O’Driscoll (Ireland), 12 Ma’a Nonu (New Zealand), 11 Shane Williams (Wales), 10 Dan Carter (New Zealand), 9 Agustin Pichot (Argentina), 8 Sergio Parisse (Italy), 7 Thierry Dusautoir (France), 6 Richie McCaw (New Zealand), 5 Alun Wyn Jones (Wales), 4 Paul O’Connell (Ireland), 3 Phil Vickery (England), 2 John Smit (South Africa), 1 Gethin Jenkins (Wales).
Photo: Tertius Pickard/Gallo Images/Getty Images