All Blacks midfielder Aaron Smith has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby through to the 2023 World Cup in France.
Smith, the largest New Zealand scrumhalf ever caught with 97 test appearances, will stay with his longtime regional side The 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 New Zealand Rugby release said Tuesday.
Smith started scrumhalf in the 2015 All Blacks World Cup final over Australia at Twickenham and while running to the semi-finals in Japan last year.
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,” he said.
Smith played his 151st match with the Highlanders in a domestic Super Rugby Aotearoa tournament in New Zealand over the weekend and is just two away from reaching All Black Ben Smith’s record (153). at the club.
“As co-captain, ‘Nug’ is a big part of this team,” said Highlands coach Tony Brown.
“He’s still world-class and working really hard to keep him up. That hard work and professionalism is a great example for the rest of the team, especially the young ones coming into the team.”