A potential Springbok return to South Africa could be on the cards, with Kwagga Smith now available after parting ways with Japanese club Shizuoka Blue Revs.
The 33-year-old loose forward was released by the Japanese outfit by mutual consent, bringing an end to his eight-year spell in Japan and potentially opening the door to a move back to South African rugby.
And one destination could be particularly intriguing: Pretoria and the Bulls.
Bulls head coach Johan Ackermann confirmed last month that the Pretoria franchise had an interest in Smith. With the veteran Springbok now a free agent, speculation over a possible move to Loftus Versfeld is likely to intensify.
Smith leaves a lasting mark in Japan
Smith joined Yamaha Júbilo — now known as the Shizuoka Blue Revs — in 2018 and went on to establish himself as one of the most respected overseas players in Japanese rugby.
During his time in Japan, he made 78 appearances across competitions, earned five selections in the Top League and League One Team of the Season, and was named League One Player of the Season for 2022/23.
His international résumé is equally impressive.
Smith has won 63 Springbok caps and was part of the South African squads that lifted the Rugby World Cup in 2019 and 2023.
The Blue Revs paid tribute to Smith following his departure, highlighting his leadership, experience and influence within the team.
Could the Bulls be his next destination?
Smith’s availability comes at an interesting moment for the Bulls.
Ackermann is looking to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level, and adding a player with Smith’s experience, versatility and big-match pedigree would give the Pretoria side another valuable option in the loose forwards.
Smith can cover multiple positions in the back row and brings the kind of international experience that can prove crucial during the biggest matches.
For the Bulls, the opportunity to bring a double Rugby World Cup winner back to South Africa could therefore be difficult to ignore.
However, there is no confirmed deal between Smith and the Bulls at this stage. His release from the Blue Revs simply makes a potential move possible, while Ackermann’s previous comments confirm that the Bulls have expressed interest.
Smith’s most recent Test appearance came on 29 November 2025, when the Springboks thrashed Wales 73-0 at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.
Now, with his Japanese chapter over, the big question is whether the next one could begin at Loftus Versfeld.
