Rugby / Bristol Bears
Former Australia captain signs for Bristol Bears
Bristol Bears’ debut season in the Gallagher Premiership has just got a lot more exciting with the signing on a short-term cover deal of one of the legends of the modern game.
Former Australia international captain George Smith made more than 100 appearances for his country, establishing himself as the second most capped Australian forward of all time and the youngest player to ever reach a century of test caps for the Wallabies.
In his domestic career, the 37-year-old was voted Players’ Player of the year eight times with the Brumbies of Canberra, seven of which came in successive seasons between 2002 and 2008.
is needed now More than ever
Between 2006 and 2009, Smith was the Australian Super 14 Player of the Year over four consecutive seasons.
Smith most recently represented Wasps in the Premiership, where he was awarded the 2016 RPA Player’s Player award.
Bristol Bears head coach Pat Lam said: “George remains one of the most physically impressive and intelligent flankers in the world. His qualities are obvious: tremendous leadership, excellent decision making, dedication to the team and unrivalled experience.
“His rugby understanding sets him apart and, even in the latter stages of his career, he’s still delivering fantastic performances at the highest level of Super Rugby.”
Smith, who is currently contracted to Queensland Reds, said: “I know Pat well and I was massively impressed by the ambition of the Bristol Bears and what they are striving to achieve. I’m looking forward to coming back to the Gallagher Premiership – a tough competition that I really enjoyed – and representing Bristol at Ashton Gate.
“I’ll be able to pass on some advice to the younger guys in the squad as well and I’ll be giving my all to the cause during my time at the club.”
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