Rugby: Smith hitting straps in lead up to World Cup

Ben Smith says he's putting getting Super 15 points for the Highlanders ahead of any All Blacks selection hype. Photo / Getty Images

When Ben Smith was selected for the All Blacks two years ago, critics gasped "Ben Who?"

No rugby critic asks that question today. They all know that fullback Ben Smith is one of the Highlanders' stars.

Rugby followers in Dunedin recognised Smith's potential in his first year in club rugby for Green Island when he wove his magic.

The whole country now sees him as a serious contender for this year's World Cup.

Smith is playing with the same confidence in Super 15 that he demonstrated when he first played premier club rugby six years ago.

Smith has not been affected by the hype and has kept his feet firmly planted on the ground.

"I've just worked on my basic skills," he said. "I have got a wee bit of confidence at the moment from the game plan we've got that helps the team to play well."

Smith, who is regarded as a utility back, has played first-class rugby in the midfield, on the wing and at fullback.

"I prefer fullback but I'm happy to play anywhere," he said. "I'm just happy being out there."

He made his mark as a first five-eighth for Green Island in club rugby but would not like to go back to the No 10 jersey for the Highlanders at the moment.

It is obvious that the All Black selectors are watching the clashes between New Zealand teams closely.

But Smith does not regard the games as All Blacks trials.

"I put it in perspective and just want the Highlanders to do well and win those close games," he said. "I'm more worried about picking up competition points."

It would be easy to slip into the mode of feeling extra pressure because All Black spots are on the line.

"I'm not buying into anything like that. I'm just concerned about playing well for the Highlanders," Smith said.

The All Black selectors have kept in touch with Smith over the last two years and told him what he should be working on.

"They have pointed out a few opportunities in a game when I could become more involved and where opportunities lie," Smith said.

Smith's goal at the start of the year was just to have a good year with the Highlanders and contribute to the team's success.

He has done that with a series of consistent games. He lifted himself to a new level against the Blues.

"It's a more enjoyable environment this year," Smith said.

"Everyone's happy when we are winning. We have worked hard to get where we are.

"The game plan that has been put in place suits us and we've been able to shut out those close games. Everyone is working hard for each other when we are out on the field."

It is Smith's third year of Super rugby and he now feels more comfortable in the environment.

"I know what to expect when I travel to places like South Africa and it does get a bit easier. But it is still a tough competition," he said.

Smith made his All Black debut on the tour to the Northern Hemisphere in 2009. His test debut was against Italy.

"What I took out of tour was that you just have to keep playing the game that suits you," Smith said. "I learned not to be overawed by the occasion and just put my head down and work harder."

Last year he was in the New Zealand Sevens team that won a gold medal at the Commonwealth Games in Delhi.

"It was good for my game," he said. "My passing got a lot better and my fitness improved.

"I enjoyed the space you have in Sevens and it has given me more of an awareness when it comes to 15s."

- Otago Daily Times