One of the premier halfbacks of the modern game, Aaron Smith ignites backlines with his bullet-like pass, which is widely regarded as one of the best in world rugby, while is also a strong defensive player. Smith quickly established himself as the All Blacks' first-choice halfback amidst fierce competition, playing 13 Tests in his debut season in 2012.
Born in Fielding in Manawatu, Aaron Smith began training as a hairdresser before his days as an electric scrum half. Making his name in the ITM cup winning Manawatu side in 2011, Smith has since enjoyed two explosive seasons with the Highlanders in Super Rugby.
In 2008, Smith was part of the New Zealand Under 20 side which claimed the Junior World Championship in Wales and in 2010, the Ngati Kahungunu-affiliated Smith made his Maori All Blacks debut.
Smith debuted against Ireland during their three-test tour in 2012, making his debut in Auckland in June of that year, having previously played a number of games for the New Zealand Maori side.
In 2014 he won the Tom French Memorial Trophy for Maori Player of the Year after a great season for both the Highlanders & All Blacks.
In 2015 he became a Super Rugby champion with the Highlanders and a RWC champion later in the year. His 129 Highlanders appearances put him second only behind great mate Ben Smith.
Smith played his 50th international test match in the final test against Wales, during the 2016 tour, alongside lock Brodie Retallick, with whom he debuted.
Smith became the most-capped scrum-half in New Zealand's history in the 2018 season, breaking Justin Marshall's long-standing record on 17 November 2018
He has scored 16 tries for the All Blacks, as at 8 May 2020, and kicked a conversion against Australia in 2014.
In March 2021, he signed a new contract with New Zealand Rugby, his Highlanders club and Manawatu provincial union that will see him stay in New Zealand through until 2023.
On the 7th of Feb 2023 Aaron announced that he was moving to Toyota Verblitz for the 2023/2024 season.
Ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023, Snith has been named in the squad for New Zealand.
S.C April 2023
Career
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Toyota Verblitz Scrum Half |
2023 - present |
 |
Feilding High School Scrum Half |
2002 - 2006 |
 |
North Island Scrum Half |
2020 - 2021 |
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Manawatu Scrum Half |
2008 - 2022 |
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Highlanders Scrum Half |
2011 - 2023 |
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New Zealand Scrum Half |
2012 - 2024 |
