Aaron Smith commits his future to New Zealand Rugby
Wednesday 26 August 2015 14:41, UK
All Black Aaron Smith has opted to keep playing rugby in his homeland, signing a new deal with New Zealand Rugby which keeps him there until 2019.
The 26-year-old has been a fixture in their international team's No 9 shirt since he made his debut in 2012.
Having committed his future, Smith will continue playing with Super Rugby champions Otago Highlanders for the next four years.
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The scrum-half is expected to be a regular in the Kiwis' starting line-up during the World Cup, which starts next month.
Reigning champions New Zealand are the favourites to win the tournament for a third time when the tournament reaches its climax at Twickenham on October 31.
They start their campaign against Argentina at Wembley on September 20 and will also face Tonga, Georgia and Namibia.
Smith, capped 41 times, said: "Knowing I'm contracted for the next four years allows me to focus on my rugby and there are some exciting challenges ahead for the All Blacks which I hope to be part of.
"Dunedin is my home and I wouldn't want to play my Super Rugby anywhere else. The Highlanders brotherhood is something pretty special and I can't wait for next season."
Smith's decision to stay in New Zealand comes as a boost given a number of other top All Blacks are expected to bow out at the World Cup.
Dan Carter and Richie McCaw are among those but Smith joins Brodie Retallick, Dane Coles and Julian Savea in signing a new four-year contract.
Forwards Jerome Kaino and Wyatt Crockett are contracted until 2018 and another 20 capped All Blacks are committed to the British and Irish Lions tour in 2017.
