Ben Smith heading to Pau

All Blacks utility back Ben Smith’s long association with the world champions will end when he joins Pau after the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

Pau club president Bernard Pontneau told French broadcaster RMC Sport on Tuesday that the 32-year-old will join the Top 14 outfit after next year’s global showpiece in Japan.

Smith, who plays for the Highlanders in Super Rugby, lifted the Webb Ellis trophy in 2015 and the 32-year-old has featured on 76 occasions for his country, scoring 33 tries since making his international debut in 2009.

He will move to an unnamed Japanese club after finishing the 2020 Top 14 season and will be unable to feature for his national side while playing outside of New Zealand.

“It’s a great satisfaction. He will have an impact on the squad and considering his calibre it will allow him to help our youngsters,” said Pontneau.