Rugby: All hail centurion George Smith

George Smith says he has learned which rucks to attack and dominate. Photo / Getty Images

Remarkably for a side with such a strong rugby pedigree, the All Blacks have yet to promote a player past the 100-test cap mark.

Sean Fitzpatrick was closest until his knee refused to budge beyond 92 tests while a few of the present side might threaten the ton if they stay healthy until the next World Cup.

However, tomorrow at Eden Park that rare centurion honour will fall on Wallaby flanker George Smith.

His consistency, his skills, his durability, his mental strength are all bound up in a remarkable physical package which began life on the international rugby fields in 2000 against France.

Smith joins fellow Wallabies, George Gregan, Stephen Larkham and David Campese as just the 10th member of the elite 100 club. The self-contained flanker will be pushed out ahead of his teammates tomorrow as the Wallabies seek a rare victory at Eden Park.

New Zealand also had a strong link to Smith's test debut: Kiwi referee Paul Honiss sinbinned the flanker.

This has been a big week for Smith, pushed into the limelight and interviews more times than he would prefer. But he accepts those obligations with the same humility with which he has gone about his rugby business.

His gravelly voice spits out his pride and thanks to those who have supported him on his journey from the junior grades at Manly to the green and gold of the Wallabies.

It seems incredible that a bloke whose job description demands that he gets attacked, regularly, at the breakdown, has survived so many matches. Injury has only counted him out of a few internationals.

"I like competing in every game and I am proud to be able to back up for matches," said the man who blew out 29 candles on his birthday cake this week.

Invariably, he felt battered and sore after games but he had learned how to recover and prepare for the next assignments. Smith thinks the secret to his longevity lies with his shape.

"I do get myself into some weird positions at the bottom of rucks, but I suppose body fat, short legs and long torso must work in my favour," he said.

A swag of family will be at Eden Park to cheer Smith and the Wallabies on as they search for the clues to undo the All Blacks' 23-year dominance at the historic arena.

Smith says the key to his role is adapting his style.

"When I started I was like a cattle dog hitting every ruck, trying to tackle everyone and always trying to get my hands on the ball.

"But now I am more selective. Rugby is a mental game. That's why I like it," he told the Sydney Morning Herald.

"You have to know which rucks you can attack and dominate, and ones which are a lost cause. You have to choose your moment."

Come on down George Smith, this is your night of celebration. Can you make it a double?