Tighthead prop Josh Smith’s Super Rugby Pacific debut went under the radar on Saturday, coming into the Western Force team as a late change for Atu Moli.
The 20-year-old front-rower joined the Force earlier this year and has been contracted on an injury cover basis.
Smith became Force cap #272 after travelling with the team to Canberra for Saturday’s 45-42 win over the Brumbies, where he got a late call-up after Moli was ruled out in the afternoon with a shoulder issue.
The front-rower, who has Fijian and Tongan parentage, previously played for Hawkes Bay in New Zealand’s NPC as well as with New Zealand’s Under-20s where he met current Force forwards coach Tom Donnelly, who helped bring him west.
Smith came into Saturday’s game with 10 minutes to play, replacing Tom Robertson, and played his part in securing the victory.
Force head of rugby Chris Goodman said: “With Atu ruled out, for someone like him to come on and play the way that he did, it was really impressive for your Super Rugby debut. He acquitted himself really well and was crucial at the end with some good carries and cleans.”
He added: “He’s a good size, good body, good age profile and is still young. He’s someone we can build with.”
Get to know Josh in 60 seconds
Date of birth: 11/6/2004
Family heritage: Dad is Fijian, mum is Tongan
Other languages spoken? Tongan
Sporting idol growing up? Jonah Lomu
Hobbies/interests outside of rugby? Hiking and travelling
Skills outside of rugby? Cooking and building
What can you talk about for hours? Rugby
Biggest fear? Sharks
Go-to karaoke song? ‘It’s So Hard To Say Goodbye To Yesterday’ by Boyz II Men
Gameday brekky? Eggs on toast, sausages and milo
Favourite part of WA and why? The beautiful beaches
