Fri 6 Aug 2021 | 02:09

Aaron Smith career highlights show just how important he really is for New Zealand

All Blacks scrum half Aaron Smith is set to earn his 100th cap against the All Blacks on Saturday in game one of this year’s Bledisloe Cup.

The 32-year-old earned his first cap in 2012 and has been a key player in the New Zealand squad for the past decade, taking a central role in the All Blacks’ 2015 World Cup triumph.

As well as his illustrious international career, Smith has made 163 appearances for the Highlanders over the past decade making him one of the most decorated players in the competition’s history.

On Aaron Smith’s landmark appearance, All Blacks head coach Ian Foster said: “He’s a special man, he’s achieved so much in the black jersey and has been an iconic player for us over the last decade. We know it’ll be a special night for him, his wife Teagan and his family.”

Game one of the 2021 Bledisloe Cup will take place at Eden Park on Saturday 7 August and Smith will combine with Richie Mo’unga as part of an exciting halfback partnership against the Wallabies.

All Blacks: Damian McKenzie, Sevu Reece, Anton Lienert-Brown, David Havili, Rieko Ioane, Richie Mo’unga, Aaron Smith, Ardie Savea, Dalton Papalii, Akira Ioane, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Nepo Laulala, Codie Taylor, George Bower.

Reserves: Dane Coles, Karl Tu’inukuafe, Angus Ta’avao, Scott Barrett, Luke Jacobson, Brad Weber, Beauden Barrett, Jordie Barrett.