Smith takes over as Cheetahs coach

This comes after the news broke earlier today that head coach Naka Drotske will retire rugby end of the season.

This morning Cheetahs announced Smith will also be the club's Currie Cup coach.

''His operations for the 2016 Super Rugby tournament will start on 1 November 2015.  He is appointed for a four year term.

Smith made his mark as a player when he represented South Africa in 18 matches and 9 Test matches. 

He further represented the Free State, Griquas, Blue Bulls and Pumas in the Currie Cup and also the Bulls on Super Rugby level.

Managing Director of the Cheetahs Harold Verster has wished him well.

''We wish Franco Smith the best of luck with his new role and look forward to a new era in Cheetah Rugby with Franco and his coaching team for the next four years.'' said Verster.

(File photo: Gallo Images)