Departing Ospreys Prop Nicky Smith Sets Sights on United Rugby Championship Play-Offs

Cape Town, April 20 – As the Ospreys gear up for their upcoming matches against the Stormers and Bulls in South Africa, departing prop Nicky Smith has made it clear that securing a spot in the United Rugby Championship play-offs is the team’s primary objective for the remainder of the season.

Determined to Achieve Play-Off Berth

Smith, who will be leaving the Welsh club to join Leicester next season, believes that anything short of a play-off berth would be an unsuccessful campaign. > “We want to get to the play-offs, it won’t be a success if we don’t make it,” the 30-year-old stated, reflecting on the team’s recent elimination from the European Challenge Cup quarter-finals at the hands of Gloucester.

With five league games left, the Ospreys currently find themselves in a battle to finish in the top half of the table, a position that would secure their place in the post-season. As Smith prepares to don the Ospreys jersey for potentially the final time, he is determined to help his team achieve their goal and push for silverware.

Honoured to Wear the Ospreys Jersey

“It’s been an absolute honour for me to pull on the jersey,” said the 46-cap loose-head prop, who hails from nearby Swansea. “But where I am in my rugby career and, more importantly, my family life, it’s the right time to test myself in a different league and a different environment.”

Maintaining International Ambitions

Despite his impending departure, Smith remains hopeful of maintaining his international aspirations with the Wales national team. > “It’s everyone’s ambition to play for their country, I am no different,” he acknowledged, though he acknowledged that his move to an English club may impact his selection prospects.

As the Ospreys face a crucial double-header against the Stormers and Bulls in the coming weeks, Nicky Smith’s leadership and experience will be vital in guiding the team’s push for a United Rugby Championship play-off spot, capping off his time with the club on a high note.

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