Kevin McCallum reflects on a cruel loss for Springbok legend John Smit in his 100th Test match in The Tribune.
"John Smit dropped to one knee exhausted and disbelieving as referee Nigel Owens blew the whistle to bring an end to a match that was so close to being the ultimate 100th anniversary party for the Springbok captain.
"A last-minute try by Israel Dagg gave the All Blacks a 29-22 win, wrapping up yet another Vodacom Tri-nations series win, but it was cruel on a Springbok team that had scrapped every inch of the way, fading in the last quarter.
"It was cruel on Smit, who has been an immense statesman for his country. Even his opposite number, Richie McCaw, who also scored a try a try three minutes from time to put the All Blacks level, felt it was harsh."
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