All Blacks halfback Aaron Smith has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby through to the 2023 World Cup in France.
Smith, the most capped New Zealand No.9 of all-time with 97 Test appearances, will also remain with his long-time provincial side the Highlanders as part of his contract extension.
“Last year was a tough one for sport, but hopefully we’ll soon see the world rugby calendar start to take shape and there’ll be plenty of exciting, new challenges to look forward to,” the 32-year-old said in a New Zealand Rugby release on Tuesday.
Smith was starting halfback in the All Blacks’ 2015 World Cup final win over Australia at Twickenham and during their run to the semi-finals in Japan last year.
All Blacks coach Ian Foster hailed Smith’s recommitment.
“He is so instrumental in the way we play the game and is such a vital cog for us, both on and off the field, so this is fantastic news,” Foster said.
Smith played his 151st match with the Highlanders in New Zealand’s domestic Super Rugby Aotearoa competition over the weekend and is only two games away from reaching fellow All Black Ben Smith’s record (153) at the club.
“As co-captain, ‘Nug’ is a huge part of this team,” Highlanders coach Tony Brown said.
“He continues to be world class and works extremely hard to maintain it.
“That hard work and professionalism is a fantastic example to the rest of the team, particularly the young fellows coming into the team.”
© Reuters
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.
I don’t really get the comparisons between Joey Manu and Sonny Bill Williams. I realise they have the Roosters in common, along with a…
All Blacks star Jordie Barrett has announced a sabbatical to play with Irish club Leinster at year's end, while committing his future to New…
There are those who will forever play the man - and not the ball - where TJ Perenara is concerned. The All Blacks and…
I well remember the day a New Zealand Rugby staffer put their hands on me. It seems I’d made them angry.The Wellington Sevens was…
New Zealand Rugby (NZR) have described the players' union call for the board to step down while governance reforms are carried out as a…
I am a rugby fan hanging on by a thread to a game I have followed for over 50 years. It brought immense joy,…
