League: Smith a likely captain

Jeremy Smith with captain Benji Marshall. Photo / Getty Images

Jeremy Smith's work rate as lock forward on his return to the Kiwis during the Four Nations has generated talk he might be the most suitable future captain of the team leading towards the 2013 World Cup.

That is not to degrade Benji Marshall's efforts since taking over from Nathan Cayless last year. The 25-year-old provides a mesmerising presence in the game and is an engaging ambassador for the sport when it comes to delighting sponsors and fans.

But a school of thought has emerged which suggests he might best concentrate on innovating from the halves rather than being bogged down by the overall responsibility, as was demonstrated at Eden Park last week, where he issued an immediate post-match apology to team-mates.

If he were to step aside, Smith (30) has already earned respect through his hard yakka in the forwards and could consequently be in a better position to lead.

The current Kiwis squad is young but coach Stephen Kearney has developed a consistent selection policy since taking over as coach in early 2008. Consequently there is a senior player group with enormous big game experience. Smith, vice-captain Adam Blair (24) and Warriors skipper Simon Mannering (24) are at the forefront of that.

Former Kiwis skipper Richie Barnett says Smith needs to be utilised more: "I'm a big fan. He is just a supreme worker and the type of player who demands respect.

"He works his guts out and had a master game against Australia last week. I was in awe."

Barnett agrees Marshall is a fine player but says Smith might be a better prospect to lead.

"It wouldn't be out of order for him to take on that role with Simon Mannering a future prospect as well. I'd encourage players like that to get in and help out in those huddles during the turning points of games - so they can keep the boys engaged when they're down, rather than letting heads drop."

Kearney says Marshall is the right man for now.

"It has been an asset having guys like Simon and Jeremy in the mix again, complementing Adam and Benji.

Greg Eastwood, Frank Pritchard, Thomas Leuluai and Lance Hohaia have played integral roles as well [in the leadership set-up].

"Those guys have all played in big games like grand finals. They have helped Benji's development as a leader.

"However, Benji needs to keep pushing himself so he is the leader of our game for a long time yet. He still suits what we're after, especially off the field. I don't use that as a total gauge but he is second-to-none as a wonderful ambassador for the game in New Zealand. He's popular in Australia too."