Smith set for comeback

 Jan 29,2013

Written by: SARugby.com Editor

Springbok flanker Juan Smith's long awaited return to action will take place on Saturday when he turns out for the Cheetahs against the Stormers in a warm-up game in Bloemfontein.

Smith has been on the sidelines since rupturing his Achilles in a Super Rugby clash against the Bulls in  February 2011. He will get a chance to prove his fitness on Saturday and against the Bulls in the Cheetahs' second pre-season friendly the following week.

The 31-year-old is without a contract due to his long absence and will play on match fees alone.

Cheetahs back-line coach Hawies Fourie said the 69-Test veteran's comeback will be managed cautiously.

"Juan is ready to play," he told the Volksblad website.

"He will probably get 15 minutes against the Stormers and 30 minutes against the Bulls.

"This will allow us to possibly consider him for our first Super game - against the Sharks."

Fourie added that more than 22 players will be in action against the Stormers.

Smith will not be the only player returning to action after recovering from injuries with number eight Philip van der Walt (knee), flanker Lappies Labuschagné (ankle), full-back Willie le Roux (groin) and centre Johann Sadie (hamstring) all expected to play.

Cheetahs skipper and Springbok hooker Adriaan Strauss - who was rested in last weekend's 33-17 defeat to the Lions - could also play for a few minutes on Saturday.

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