not expected to play any part in the All Blacks’ tour, but a head knock to Brad Weber has prompted a change of plan.
Weber was injured early in the test against Italy in Rome last weekend, and was replaced by Finlay Christie.
“I’ve very excited to come back and join the boys,” Smith said in a video released by the All Blacks. “Two very big games for the lads, which is really exciting to be part of. The boys have done well and it was great to be a fan from afar, but deep down knowing I’d love to be there as well. Since my boy [Leo] has arrived, Teagan was all for it. It was a pretty short conversation. She was like, ‘Go, this is a great opportunity for you’. I’m going over with no expectations of playing, but I’ll try to do my best t impact where I can. Little Leo is fit and healthy…it was pretty tough this morning at 4.45 this morning, saying my goodbyes, but I’m feeling grateful to Teagan.”
The All Blacks play Ireland in Dublin this weekend and France in Paris the following weekend: two huge tests that will define their season.
The All Blacks said that Smith would arrive in Dublin “midweek”, which may be too late for him to feature against Ireland, but he has a well-earned reputation as a ferocious trainer and competitor and could clearly play a role if needed.
His departure for Europe also sets up the possibility of a head-to-head clash with France halfback and Captain Antoine Dupont, who is regarded in the northern hemisphere as the world’s best No 9.
Smith is short of game time, but has played for Manawatū in this year’s NPC and looked sharp, while his vast knowledge of test rugby will be priceless.
With Weber injured, the All Blacks other two halfbacks are TJ Perenara, and the relatively inexperienced Christie.
