It is blow for New Zealand rugby, although Smith does not believe the national body should be too concerned. ''There is always guys coming through,'' Smith said. There are a lot of new guys coming through and performing really well. Smith is ever hopeful Hemopo will return to New Zealand and the Highlanders at some stage. Smith has been named at fullback and will mark David Havili, who is the sort of player you might imagine Smith was talking about when he spoke of the talent coming through the ranks.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 14, 2019 15:32 UTC