Smith is expected to take over at the Azzurri coach from Connor O’Shea at the end of the World Cup.

This was all but confirmed when the Springbok coach, Rassie Erasmus, made a turn in Bloemfontein to meet with the Cheetahs. He confirmed that he will be involved in the process of sourcing a new head coach for the team.

On Tuesday it is expected that the Cheetahs will confirm the departure of Smith for the first time, and also reveal the plan going forward.

It is however highly doubtful that the shortlist of candidates for the post will be revealed at this stage.

Deon Davids of the Southern Kings and Hawies Fourie of the University of Stellenbosch Maties appear to be the frontrunners to take over from Smith, while the names of Matthew Proudfoot and Paul Feeney have been mentioned as well.

The former coach, Rory Duncan, who led the side to the players in their debut season of the Guinness Pro14 was also linked with the job, however, speaking from England he told OFM Sport that he has no interest in returning to South Africa.

There are murmurings in Port Elizabeth that Davids is about to get the ax from the Kings, as they are planning wholesale changes, and on top of the 20 players who will be without a contract, the coach is also in the firing line.

It is believed that Smith will still coach the Cheetahs during the Currie Cup.

@MorganPiek OFM Sport