'I don't want to say I'm retired' - Ben Smith

'I don't want to say I'm retired' - Ben Smith

Former All Blacks and Highlanders outside back Ben Smith isn't retired, yet.

After 153 Highlanders appearances, 84 test caps as well as winning a Rugby World Cup and Super Rugby title, Ben Smith has confirmed that he still has some gas left in the tank.

The 36-year-old finished up his rugby with New Zealand in 2019 featuring in the Bronze medal final against Wales.

After the World Cup, Smith spent a season with French Top 14 club Pau before heading to Japan to join Kobelco Steelers in 2021.

Initial thoughts were that Smith had retired from professional rugby in 2021 but he returned to Japan earlier this year on a short-term deal with Kobe Kobelco Steelers.


Now, the Rugby World Cup has confirmed that he hasn't retired.

Speaking to the What A Lad Podcast, hosted by former Hurricanes' back James Marshall, Smith said: 'I don't want to say I'm retired... hopefully if there's an opportunity that pops up we will weight it up then and go from there.


Listen to the full podcast below:

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