In-form All Blacks back Ben Smith has committed to New Zealand rugby for the next four years.
Smith, 27, has signed to stay at Otago and the Highlanders until the end of 2017 in a key result for the New Zealand Rugby Union.
An ability to play wing, fullback or centre makes wing Smith a valuable commodity, with several of New Zealand’s leading outside backs nearing the end of their career or signing overseas deals.
Smith was labelled the “back of the series” by All Blacks coach Steve Hansen following three strong outings on the wing in the home series whitewash of France last month.
That took his Test cap tally to 15 since his debut against Italy nearly four years ago.
Smith’s Test career seemed to have stalled, playing just one more Test after that appearance in Milan until Hansen included him in his squad for 2012. Eight of 10 Test appearances last year came off the reserves bench.
His game has lifted to another level this season for the last-placed Highlanders, where his running and option-taking have shone in a difficult Super Rugby campaign.
Two tries against France took his Test tally to five.
“I have always been proud to wear the Otago, Highlanders and All Blacks jerseys,” Smith said.
“Growing up down the road from my Green Island club in Dunedin, rugby was the game I have always loved and I’m loving it still. I look forward to playing my part any way I can over the next few years.”
Hansen described Smith as a top professional who the All Blacks coaching staff have worked hard with to develop his game.
“He is an exceptional footballer and a down-to-earth team man.”