Springbok skipper smitten with new spirit

0 Comments | AFP, September, 2007

PARIS (AFP) — Four years ago South African hooker John Smit trudged off the pitch thoroughly fed up with the Springbok set up after being beaten by England in their World Cup group match - here on Friday he will lead his team onto the Stade de France turf with a spring in his step against the world champions.

The 29-year-old - who will lead the 'Boks for a record 44th time and extend his national record as the most capped hooker of all time with his 66th cap - puts this remarkable turnaround down to the change of regime when Rudolf Straeuli was replaced by Jake White as coach in 2004.

"The morale in the camp is different to 2003 and for that we have to thank Jake and the selectors for keeping faith with this group of players and in amassing over 600 caps...