South Africa hit by Juan Smith withdrawal

South Africa loose forward Juan Smith has ruled himself out of the World Cup because of an Achilles problem.

Smith suffered the injury playing for the Cheetahs in February, and has informed Springboks coach Peter de Villiers he is not fit enough for consideration. De Villiers said: "A fully-fit Juan Smith would have been an enormous asset to our campaign and this is a major disappointment."

Smith, who has featured in 69 Tests for his country, said: "This is a huge blow to me. The rugby World Cup is the pinnacle of any player's career."