Only 18 months ago, the Newport Gwent Dragons centre got the better of the Rugby World Cup’s youngest player at the 2006 IRB U19 World Championship.
Yet the contrast between the two 20-year-olds couldn’t be further apart. While Steyn lines up in the World Cup final against England in Paris tonight (Sat), Smith has yet to even come close to winning a senior cap.
However, Smith insists the Natal Sharks centre’s steep rise to stardom is an inspiration for young talent coming through.
“To have played against Francois last year and now see him lining up in the World Cup final gives all the players of my generation the hope that we can make it to the international stage,” said Smith, who has the weekend off as he prepares for the Dragons EDF Energy Cup clash against London Wasps next Saturday.
“I was watching the England pool game against South Africa with a few of the boys from our Welsh side and we turned to each other and said, “Is this the same guy whom we played against?”‘
“Someone said it was and we were all amazed. Francois has been very impressive during the World Cup, but we remember him as a great player but in a struggling South African team. We were told by the coaches to watch out for him beforehand and even then the game looked so much easier for him.”
Steyn scored 16 points but still ended up on the losing side when Wales defeated the Springboks 32-21 last April in Dubai. But Smith recalls the skills and ability that his opposite number possessed which has enabled Steyn to smoothly progress to the top tier of rugby and showcase his talents on the biggest stage.
Smith said: “He’s a top quality all-round ball player. He’s more of a modern centre with good hands and a great kicking game. I don’t think he’s under any pressure at all and has a care free style which is exciting to watch.
“He’s surrounded by experienced players such as Butch James who’s a calming influence and Percy Montgomery. He’s been noted to score long-range drop goals in the Super 14 and at international level and England will have to watch out.”
