Ex-Wallabies, league star Brian Smith dies of cancer

Brian Smith, the former Wallabies and league star, has died at the age of 59 after battling cancer. Smith, who played six Tests for Australia and nine for Ireland, had previously switched his allegiance to Ireland. A talented rugby union player, he also had a successful career in the National Rugby League (NRL), playing for Balmain and Eastern Suburbs and coaching rugby union in various countries.

Smith served as Australia's sevens coach and was known for his exceptional skills and contributions to the sport. Former Wallabies coach Alan Jones described Smith as one of the world's most gifted players. He was recently the Head of Sport at Scots College in Sydney, where many Wallabies, including Bell, graduated from. Bell, a fellow rugby player, paid tribute to Smith, describing him as a great bloke, father, and coach.

Bell and Smith had a close relationship, with Bell attributing his success to Smith's coaching. Smith's death has left the rugby community in shock, and tributes have been pouring in from colleagues and former players.