Franco Smith is confident that he can meet the challenge of having a dual coaching role with both the Boks and Cheetahs.

Smith was drafted into the Springbok coaching team for the European tour last November. Last week he was confirmed as the new Bok backline and attack coach, while remaining as the Cheetahs head coach.

Speaking to a large media contingent at the first of three Bok training camps on Monday, Smith said he was excited to be involved with the national set-up on an official basis.

'It’s an unbelievable honour to be involved with the Springboks in this capacity, but I know that honour comes a huge responsibility.

'Personally, it will be an interesting challenge but it is not something that is unique because it has be done before [at Bok level], while some of the other international teams are doing the same currently.

'The fact that I will be in the frontline, coaching throughout the year, will be of benefit to me though, and will no doubt help me to grow as a coach.'

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Meanwhile, the players in camp took part in a 'flush-out session' on Sunday afternoon before undergoing medical check-ups and then attended a meeting to discuss the 2017 season.

Later on Monday afternoon, the players returned in two groups to a nearby gym, where first the forwards and then the backs continued with their strength and conditioning training.

However, the following players did not participate in training on Monday because of injury: Uzair Cassiem, Ox Nche, Trevor Nyakane, Lood de Jager, Jaco Kriel, Rudy Paige, Rohan Janse van Rensburg, Sergeal Petersen, Damian de Allende and Jean-Luc du Plessis.

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Smith said the benefits of the recent coaching indabas had already been noticeable.

'The cooperation [between franchise and Springbok coaches] that we saw during those meetings is something that we can be proud of. As a franchise coach myself, we all know the national team comes first and we want to contribute towards the success of the Springboks.'

Photo: Sydney Seshibedi/Gallo Images