SMIT: IT'S A MASSIVE CHALLENGE

Published: Monday, 23. January, 2012 in category Heineken Cup

John Smit believes Saracens face "a massive challenge" after being pitted against Clermont in the Heineken Cup quarter-finals.

Smit: Expecting a tough test against Clermont

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Saracens, the defending Aviva Premiership champions, secured their place in the knockout stages with a battling 26-20 victory over Treviso.

Mark McCall's men - England's sole representatives in the last eight - will now take on Clermont during the opening weekend in April, with holders Leinster or Cardiff Blues waiting in the last four.

And former South Africa skipper Smit, who spent a season at Clermont, knows Saracens face a daunting prospect against the Top 14 side.

"Clermont are a fantastic club with quality players throughout the squad," said the Saracens hooker.

"It is going to be a massive challenge for us, but one which we cannot wait for.

"I know from my time there that they always want to do well in the Heineken Cup. But at Saracens, we are looking to create our own legacy with the squad of players we have."

The other half of the draw sees Munster meet Ulster in Limerick, with the winner facing either Edinburgh or four-time European champions Toulouse.