Springbok no. 389 · Scrumhalf
Nelie Smith
Cornelius Michael Smith · Cheetahs
7Tests
1Tries
1Tours
29Age at debut
Test career
196319641965
First test
24 Aug 1963, age 29 · Scrumhalf v Australia, Ellis Park, Johannesburg
Last test
21 Aug 1965, age 31 · Scrumhalf v New Zealand, Carisbrook, Dunedin
Biography
Nelie Smith was a scrumhalf who captained South Africa four times and later became an outstanding coach. Born in Bloemfontein on 8 May 1934, he played for the Orange Free State and won seven caps between 1963 and 1965.
He kicked three penalties on debut against Australia in 1963 and scored a try in the 24–3 win over Wales in 1964. As a coach he led the Orange Free State to the 1976 Currie Cup, coached the Springboks, and also coached successfully in Italy. He died on 2 May 2016.
Test history
7 tests · 4 as captain · 12 points| Date | Opponent | Venue | Position | Result | Province |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24 Aug 1963 |  Australia | Ellis Park, Johannesburg | Scrumhalf | L 9–11 | Cheetahs |
| 07 Sep 1963 | Australia | Boet Erasmus, Port Elizabeth | Scrumhalf | W 22–6 | Cheetahs |
| 23 May 1964 |  Wales | Kings Park, Durban | Scrumhalf | W 24–3 | Cheetahs |
| 25 Jul 1964 |  France | P.A.M. Brink Stadium, Springs | Scrumhalf (C) | L 6–8 | Cheetahs |
| 19 Jun 1965 | Australia | Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney | Scrumhalf (C) | L 11–18 | Cheetahs |
| 26 Jun 1965 | Australia | Brisbane Stadium (Lang Park), Brisbane | Scrumhalf (C) | L 8–12 | Cheetahs |
| 21 Aug 1965 |  New Zealand | Carisbrook, Dunedin | Scrumhalf (C) | L 0–13 | Cheetahs |