All Blacks and Highlanders halfback Aaron Smith has voiced his true feelings surrounding the structure of Super Rugby Aotearoa, suggesting the older format was more enjoyable for players. 2021 marks the second and final year of the makeshift competition solely held in New Zealand involving all five franchises. The New Zealand-focused competition was seen as a temporary fix to the untenable 15-team Super Rugby tournament amid the global pandemic. He was asked whether he preferred the current or older format of Super Rugby. All Blacks and Highlanders halfback Aaron Smith misses the travel aspect of Super Rugby.

Source: New Zealand Herald April 29, 2021 18:56 UTC