Smith is set to start at inside centre and is following in the footsteps of his father Franco, his uncle MJ, and his younger brother Juan, by also playing in the world’s oldest domestic competition. His dad and uncle both represented the Free State, while Juan plays for the Sharks.

Although the 25-year-old has gained significant United Rugby Championship experience during his time with Zebre in Italy, he is yet to feature in the Currie Cup.

Franco Smith, Sr. Photo: Morgan Piek

He made his debut for the Cheetahs last year against the Griffons in the Toyota Challenge, and earlier this year he turned out for the team against Lyon in the EPCR Challenge Cup – a match in which he sustained a long-term hamstring injury.

Since joining the Cheetahs from Zebre, Smith’s time in Bloemfontein has unfortunately been hampered by injuries, including a fractured wrist. 

Speaking to OFM Sport, he said it’s a dream come true to finally play in the world’s oldest domestic rugby tournament. “Obviously, it’s a massive opportunity for me personally to make my Currie Cup debut against the Pumas,” said the eldest son of current Glasgow Warriors and former Cheetahs coach Franco Smith, Sr.

Franco Smith, Jr. Photo: Morgan Piek

“It’s a huge privilege to be back on the field wearing the Cheetah jersey in the Currie Cup. It’s a historic competition, so to be able to play in it is really special. Definitely one of my dreams come true. I grew up watching Currie Cup rugby as a kid, and now to be playing at this level is incredibly meaningful.

“I’ve had a tough time with injuries over the past few months. I fractured my wrist late last year and then tore my hamstring during the Lyon game in France. But now, after months of rehab and hard work, I finally have the chance to give it a go this weekend.”

Smith didn’t feature in the Cheetahs' 37-35 loss to the Boland Cavaliers in Wellington on Sunday, but he said the team has taken lessons from the defeat and are focused on bouncing back.

“This past weekend was tough for the team,” he added. “Losing away to Boland definitely affects how we prepare this week. There were a lot of small things we needed to fix. But like any challenge, we’ll face this one head-on.

“I’m excited for what lies ahead. It’s still early in the Currie Cup, and even though it’s a single-round format, we’ll make the most of this opportunity.

Sasko Ndlovu. Photo: Morgan Piek

“It’s a short turnaround playing on Friday, especially after the guys returned from the Sunday game. But there’s a lot to look forward to. The Pumas are a quality side and they’re playing good rugby, but we’ll stick to what we do best and give it everything. The environment is positive, the boys are ready, and I can’t wait for this weekend’s challenge.”

Smith isn’t the only player set to make his Currie Cup debut for the Cheetahs. Flanker Sasko Ndlovu, a former Junior Springbok captain, is also expected to earn his first cap.

Friday night’s game at the Toyota Stadium kicks off at 19:00.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mc