Chris Smith: “The Dream Is Still Alive” as He Targets Springbok Call-Up During Lions Surge

It’s been a dream season for the Golden Lions up in Johannesburg. Sitting comfortably in the top eight of the United Rugby Championship standings, they are well on track for a strong playoff finish. At the heart of their success is flyhalf Chris Smith, who currently leads the competition as its top points scorer.

“It honestly has been a weird season,” Smith reflected. 

“We started 0/3 on tour, but Ellis Park has been good to us. We slipped up against the Bulls at home, but this is probably our longest winning streak in the URC with five games.”

He credits the team’s turnaround to clarity in identity and execution. 

“We’ve found a game model that suits Lions Rugby and how we want to play. We’ve been able to execute that on weekends and get good results.”

A Different Pride in 2026

The Lions have long been known for playing attractive rugby, but inconsistency often saw them fall away when it mattered most. 

This season, however, tells a different story. With three games remaining, they sit fourth on the log, looking far more complete and competitive than in previous years.

“Lions rugby has always been exciting,” Smith said, “but now we’ve added structure and a strong pressure game. That balance has really worked in our favour.”

Find of the Season

Smith’s journey to this point hasn’t been straightforward. 

Having represented teams like the Pumas and the Bulls, along with a stint overseas, he has finally found consistency and confidence in his first season with the Lions.

“I’ve worked six or seven years as a professional to get to this point,” he told SportsBoom.co.za in an exclusive interaction.  

“It’s comforting to know I’m backed and playing every week. Time in the saddle for a nine or ten is everything.”

Smith also praised head coach Ivan van Rooyen for his trust and support.

“I’ve really enjoyed working with Cash. Playing flyhalf week in and week out makes a huge difference. We’ve scored a lot of tries, which helps with the points tally,” he added with a laugh.

“But a lot of the success comes down to the team and how we’ve played. I just take pride in my kicking and doing my job.”

Bok Ambitions for Smith

Like many South African players, Smith still dreams of representing the South Africa national rugby union team. 

With head coach Rassie Erasmus rewarding strong domestic performances with national opportunities, Smith may well be in contention if his form continues.

“Every rugby player in South Africa dreams of playing for the Springboks,” he added. 

“That dream is still alive for me. But right now, my focus is on performing for the Lions. If it happens, it happens, if it doesn’t, that’s okay too.”

Still, there’s no doubt where his ambitions lie.

“The dream is definitely alive," he concluded.