Kwagga Smith is free to join the Bulls after ending his contract with the Shizuoka Blue Revs by mutual consent.
The Japanese club confirmed on Tuesday that the 32-year-old Springbok loose forward had been released, bringing an end to his eight-year stint in Asia.
Bulls coach Johan Ackermann confirmed last month that the Pretoria-based club was interested in signing Smith and fellow Springbok Malcolm Marx, who also plays his club rugby in Japan.
Smith joined Yamaha Júbilo (as the Blue Revs were then known) in 2018 and went on to establish himself as one of the leading foreign players in Japanese rugby.
He made 78 appearances across competitions, earning five selections in the Top League/League One Team of the Season, and was crowned League One Player of the Season in 2022-23.
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In a statement announcing his departure, the Blue Revs paid tribute to the double World Cup winner.
“With 63 Test caps for South Africa, Smith brought a wealth of experience and an impressive track record to the team. He consistently led by example and served as a role model for his teammates.
“Smith has played an important role in shaping the club’s history and is widely recognised as one of the league’s outstanding players and most influential contributors.
“Everyone at the club would like to express their deepest respect and gratitude for his achievements and contributions over the years, and we sincerely wish him continued success in the future.”
［契約終了のお知らせ］
#静岡ブルーレヴズ はこの度、 #クワッガ・スミス 選手との選手契約を終了することで双方合意に達しました。同選手は2018年にヤマハ発動機ジュビロに加入して以来、8シーズンにわたりチームの中心選手として活躍してきました。ベストXV(フィフティーン)をトップリーグ時代に2度、リーグワンでも3度受賞。2022-23シーズンにはプレーヤー・オブ・ザ・シーズンも受賞しました。また、南アフリカ代表63キャップの経験と実績と共に、常にチームを牽引し、模範であり続けた選手でした。
クラブの歴史を築いた重要な存在であり、名実共にリーグをも代表する功労者であるクワッガ・スミス選手。これまでの功績に最大限の敬意と感謝を表するとともに、今後のさらなる活躍をクラブ一同、心より祈念いたします。
— 静岡ブルーレヴズ SHIZUOKA BlueRevs
(@bluerevs) October 20, 2026
Photo: JRLO
The post Kwagga clears path for Bulls move appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Kwagga Smith is free to join the Bulls after ending his contract with the Shizuoka Blue Revs by mutual consent.
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