The Sharks have lost a talented playmaker to Vodacom URC rivals as the flyhalf roster in Durban becomes more and more crowded.
The club announced Jean Smith’s departure on Tuesday and his European journey has come full circle.
The 23-year-old flyhalf, son of former Springbok and current Glasgow Warriors head coach Franco Smith, will join Benetton Rugby at the end of the current URC season.
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It is a move rich in symmetry. Smith was born in Treviso while his father was playing for Benetton, and he now returns to the Italian city to continue his professional career in the very competition that has become a key pathway to Test rugby.
The talented No 10 has represented the Sharks across multiple competitions and wore the green and gold at Under-16, Under-18 and Under-20 level. However, with established Springboks and rising playmakers already on the Sharks’ books, regular opportunities would’ve been hard to come by.
The Sharks already have Jordan Hendrikse, Siya Masuku, Vusi Moyo and new acquisition Gianni Lombard as strong pivot options.
The shift to Treviso could provide the consistent URC game time needed to elevate his career to the next level.
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Smith is also eligible to represent Italy, a factor that adds further intrigue with the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia on the horizon – a tournament that will see the Springboks open their campaign against the Azzurri.
Jean will depart at the end of the season to Benetton
We’re wishing you all the best on your next chapter @smith_jean_
pic.twitter.com/jRwAPZV1Bi
— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) February 17, 2026
Photo: Tyler Miller/Sportsfile via Getty Images
The post Sharks 10 heads to Italy appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
The Sharks have lost a talented playmaker to Vodacom URC rivals as the flyhalf roster in Durban becomes more and more crowded.
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