Ironman Smith ready to lead reborn Reds

Feb 6, 2017 - 5:33 AM George Smith reckons his body is built for the brutality of back-to-back rugby seasons as he prepares for a new chapter in his career at the Queensland Reds.

The former Wallaby great has arrived at Ballymore after helping guide Suntory Sungoliath to the Japanese league and cup double, and is ready to help lead his new franchise out of the Super Rugby doldrums.

Smith was the prize capture of the Reds' impressive off-season recruiting drive, signing a two-year deal last year to mark his Australian rugby comeback.

The near-indestructible 36-year-old has split his time with clubs in Europe and Japan over the last few years with little rest between campaigns.

He had just a three-week break following his successful season in the English Premiership with Wasps, leading into his most recent jaunt in Japan, which only wrapped up last month - but that's just the way he likes it.

"I don't like pre-seasons," Smith told reporters in Brisbane on Monday.

"And I tend to go well backing up and playing. My body's just built for that.

"I've no issues at the moment. I just enjoy my rugby.

"Being 36 now, I still want to compete with the best and I don't want to be a participant in teams, I want to be a dominant player.

"I wouldn't sign up with a team and dishonour their club without me knowing I can do the job for them."

Smith, who assisted Eddie Jones during England's Six Nations campaign last year, has ruled out becoming a coach when he eventually retires but looms as an invaluable mentor for younger players at the Reds this season.

New back-row partner Hendrik Tui, who also played alongside Smith in Japan, said his sheer presence is enough to bring the best out of others.

"All the players respect him. You want to play well for him - you don't want to make him disappointed," Tui said.

Smith said it was a family decision to move to the Reds and never really considered a return to the Brumbies, where he started his career back in 2000.

"It was a compatible life for us. (My wife) has really enjoyed her time here and is really loving it," he said.

"I'm starting to enjoy it, I've been on a bike ride around the river and up the Story Bridge and all around the place.

"I've always wanted to be part of a team that we can build into something great and I feel with the Reds and their roster, the enthusiasm of the young players within the group, can be a force."

Source: AAP