In the wake of their most untimely exit from the World Cup in history, the here and now of the Wallabies have been graced with a vision of their glory days. George Smith, bonafide rugby legend and linchpin of the Wallabies’ past triumphs, is set to be honoured with induction into the World Rugby Hall of Fame.
Talents like George Gregan, John Eales, David Campese, Mark Ella, and Nick Farr-Jones adorn the Hall of Fame, leaving big boots to fill. Undoubtedly though, Smith is more than deserving of this distinction, becoming the 19th Australian to receive such a tribute.
Smith catapulted onto the international rugby stage from inconspicuous beginnings, making his debut in France in 2000. The roving back-rower’s 111 Test appearances for the Wallabies bore witness to ample victories. Most notably performing a significant role in Australia’s victory over the British and Irish Lions, Smith also ensured the Wallabies clinched the coveted Tri Nations title in his debutant year.
The seasoned player, who graced the pitch for the entire 100 minutes of the Wallabies’ 2003 World Cup final defeat to England in Sydney, took the helm as captain during the 2007 World Cup. Glittering accolades have been bestowed upon Smith, a two-time recipient of the John Eales medal for Australia’s best player.
Phil Waugh, former teammate and current Rugby Australia CEO, commended the new Hall of Fame inductee as a “warrior” and a befitting recipient of the game’s paramount honour. Waugh, having competed alongside and against Smith in his own playing days, marvelled at his distinguished career, casting him as an embodiment of Wallabies spirit and a paragon for future number seven jersey holders.
John Eales, who shares the illustrious honour of being both a Rugby Hall of Famer and former Wallabies captain, celebrated Smith as one of five “exemplars of the athletic requirements of our game”. Smith is no stranger to such tributes, being titled Super Rugby Player of the Year on four occasions throughout his 142-game career with the Brumbies. Eales highlights the importance of honouring the contributions of players like Smith, whose remarkable careers enhance the renowned, global presence of Rugby.
The recognition bestowed on Smith, who called time on his glorious career only in 2019, comes alongside fellow champions of the game Dan Carter, Thierry Dusautoir, Juan Martín Hernández, and Bryan Habana, who will also enter the World Rugby Hall of Fame in 2023.
