Aaron Smith is New Zealand ‘s fastest ever half – scrum half and was part of the 2015 World Cup winning side; Smith, 32, has also extended his contract with Otago Highlanders in Super Rugby Aotearoa
Last updated: 02/03/21 6:39 am
Aaron Smith has 97 appearances for New Zealand, mostly by a scrum and a half in the country’s history
All Blacks halfback Aaron Smith has been re-signed by New Zealand Rugby through to the 2023 World Cup in France.
Smith, New Zealand’s newest half-time scrum, with 97 test appearances, will stay with his longtime regional side Otago Highlanders as part of his expansion.
“Last year was a very difficult time for sport, but hopefully we will see the world rugby calendar begin to unfold again and there will be new, exciting challenges to look forward to. forward, “the 32 – year – old said in a New Zealand Rugby statement on Tuesday.
Smith was an All Blacks scrumhalf in the 2015 World Cup final over Australia at Twickenham and during the run to the semi-finals in Japan in 2019.
Blacks coach Ian Foster praised Smith.
“It’s so important in the way we play the game and it’s a vital hurdle for us, both on and off the pitch, so this is great news,” said Foster.
Smith played his 151st game with the Highlanders in the Super Rugby Aotearoa home competition last weekend and is just two away from reaching the club ‘s All Black Ben Smith (153) record.
Smith celebrates scoring in the 2019 World Cup semi-final over Ireland
“As co-captain, ‘Nug’ is a big part of this team,” said Highlands coach Tony Brown.
“It is still world class and working hard to maintain it.
“That hard work and professionalism is a great example to the rest of the team, especially the young people who come into the team. “