Italian-qualified ex-Junior Bok follows in father's footsteps with Benetton move

Benetton have signed Sharks fly-half Jean Smith ahead of next season on a three-year deal.

The 22-year-old came through the Benetton academy when he was younger while his father, Glasgow Warriors head coach Franco Smith, was a player and coach in northern Italy.

Having been born in Italy, Smith qualifies for the Azzurri, and Benetton president Antonio Pavanello revealed the goal is for the No.10 to progress into the national team.

Smith left Italy over a decade ago to attend Grey College in Bloemfontein before signing for the Sharks.

After representing South Africa U20 in 2023, Smith was tipped to become the Sharks’ first-choice fly-half, but injuries in recent years have curtailed his progress.

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“I am extremely happy and excited to be returning to a club that for me means much more than just a team,” Smith said to his future club after signing.

“It’s an environment that is deeply close to my heart, because it was here that I played my first rugby match, taking my first steps in this sport that later became my life. I can’t wait to give my all for Treviso, on and off the pitch, and to contribute with full commitment to the team’s goals.”

Pavanello added: “We are extremely happy to welcome Jean Smith back to the green and white family. His return is deeply meaningful, as Jean took his first steps in rugby in our youth teams, wearing the Benetton Rugby jersey from a young age.

“Jean is a young and rapidly developing player, who is undergoing a very significant development process in the highly competitive South African environment. His technical qualities, combined with the personality and maturity he demonstrates despite his young age, make him a perfect fit for our technical project.

“Furthermore, the fact that he is eligible adds further value to his addition: as a club, we firmly believe in investing in players who can be an asset not only to Benetton Rugby, but also to the Italian movement and the senior national team.

“We have great faith in Jean and are convinced that he will be able to continue his growth in Treviso, making a concrete contribution to Benetton Rugby’s sporting objectives in the coming years.”