Accomplished All Blacks outside back Ben Smith will leave New Zealand to play rugby in France after next year’s Rugby World Cup.
The classy 76-Test wing/fullback has signed to play for French Top 14 club Pau, which has contracted numerous former New Zealand Test players in recent years and is coached by ex All Black Simon Mannix.
Smith, 32, made his Test debut in 2009 but became a mainstay of the world champions’ starting XV when Steve Hansen took over as coach in 2012.
Regarded for much of that time as the world’s premier fullback, his versatility also meant he was fielded on the wing numerous times, along with a short stint at outside centre.
A genuine all-rounder, Smith boasts speed, a strong aerial game and decision-making ability which was matched by few of his peers.
He was pragmatic about his decision.
“I realise that my playing time with Otago, the Highlanders and the All Blacks now has an end point,” Smith said.
“In your heart you want to play forever, but in your head you know that’s not possible. In the playing time I have remaining, I’m pretty keen to experience a fresh, new challenge.”
Smith played 144 games for the Highlanders and was part of the team who won the 2015 final against the Hurricanes.
Later that year, he was a key figure in the World Cup-winning All Blacks squad.
Lara
Guest
The late bloomer , but worth the wait . Just a super smart player , who just does his job n you almost take it for granted......when you are that good for that long , you feel like u are part of the furniture, man will you be missed. Here's to a vintage 2019.
Oblonsky‘s Other Pun
Roar Guru
I agree with you about Jordie and McKenzie. I've said it before, but I don't think it's by chance that most of the All Blacks' worst performances are when both Barrett and McKenzie start. At present, there is no obvious Muliaina, Dagg or Smith.
Pinetree
Roar Rookie
I am not keen on Jordie or Mckenzie as starters either. I think they can both make poor decisions under high stress situations. I was just laying out common opinion options of both the coaching staff and fans. I want BB to be the fullback for his kicking/playmaking/attacking skills. I do like the look of Mckenzie as an impact player, and think he suits this role well. I am not convinced of Havili stepping up to the next level, although I am a fan of his following Tasman and the Crusaders, but he is definitely n the mix of potential talent that could step up. I think Havili may have more use in the future as a bench player with his versatility in the backs playing midfield and outside back.
Oblonsky‘s Other Pun
Roar Guru
I would count Havili out yet either. While his 2018 was a downgrade on 2017, to me, he looks like he could grow into that dependable fullback that, like Smith, has no weaknesses whatsoever, but is also capable of brilliance. Jordie and McKenzie, to me, are more like the Beales or Folaus - capable of plenty of brilliance, but also plenty of rubbish. I would go with the Havili style over the Beale style any day.
Oblonsky‘s Other Pun
Roar Guru
Yes, I think he is to fullbacks what Carter was to flyhalfs, or Horan was to inside-centres.
Clelo
Guest
I just love your analogy. Not many people can say it it in such words. Well said!!
Crash Ball2
Guest
Just about the perfect rugby player. From a distinguished line of All Blacks who look like accountants and play rugby like Gods.
Pinetree
Roar Rookie
This was kind of expected, and shows that Ben Smith has realistic view of his expiry date of his rugby at the top level. He will be turning 34 in 2020, and his early decision gives the ABs plenty of time to consider their move post RWC. Fantastic player and a humble man, and hope he enjoys his rugby in France with a deserved pay packet. Serving the ABs through your prime years, when you could have gone for big money in the NH, is more than you can ask from a player. Thanks Bender, and hope you have a cracker 2019 RWC to add the icing on the cake of an amazing career. Next step, who will take the fullback position full time after the RWC? I am keen on BB taking the 15, and Mo'unga stepping into 10 (or another 10 if someone else new steps up past Mo'unga). But maybe J Barrett or Mckenzie may take the role? There are some promising young talent that may step up as well?
CUW
Roar Rookie
definitely on timing some have gone too early - like Hayman and Vito while others went late - like Kaino and Messam Read NMS Naholo aare all set to leave according to reports in Europe
Oblonsky‘s Other Pun
Roar Guru
Great player. Best of luck!
Barbara Pleacd
Guest
Congratulations thank you for the exciting games we have watched over the years. You are one of the best
Marlin
Roar Rookie
he's been a pleasure to watch
Nobody
Roar Rookie
*fullback
Carlin
Roar Rookie
It was inevitable I guess. He has achieved a great deal and play to an extremely high standard on a regular basis. He has a young family so is taking the opportunity to earn some good coin. Pau is a club that has a large New Zealand influence so he should be able to fit in well. He is also a keen surfer and Biarritz is only 90 minutes away. ALL THE BEST BENDER!!!
Peter Kelly
Guest
One of the smartest ABs chosen to make another smart decision with smart timing. Not all players get to choose there exit, hope he really enjoys the next year and then the experience of an OE in France.
Bluffboy
Roar Rookie
If there was good time to go, I guess that would be it. Congratulations on a fine career, both as an All Black and Highlander. It been a pleasure to watch how you conducted yourself on and off the field. At least there will be one more season.
KiwiHaydn
Roar Rookie
A great rugby man, all the best to him and his family. Must rank right up there with the best All Blacks fullbacks of all time.