The hooker sustained the injury during the opening Vodacom Tri-Nations Test against the All Blacks on Saturday at the Westpac Stadium.

Smit underwent a scan earlier today, which confirmed he had sustained a strain of his hip adductor. He returns to South Africa on Wednesday and his replacement, Vodacom Western Province no.2 Schalk Brits, arrives later tonight in Wellington.

Andy Marinos, Manager of National Teams, described Smith’s injury as a massive blow.

 “John is in my view the most respected and experienced international rugby captain at the moment so his absence is a big setback for the team. We have two tough tour matches remaining but are fortunate to have in Bismarck du Plessis and Schalk Brits two very good replacements,” Marinos explained.

Victor Matfield will captain the team in the absence of Smit.

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