Ben Smith hospitalised with infection

Editor

Highlanders and New Zealand star full-back Ben Smith has remained behind in Sydney for treatment on a leg infection.

Highlanders and New Zealand star full-back Ben Smith has remained behind in Sydney for treatment on a leg infection.

Smith played in Sunday's clash with the Waratahs before heading to hospital for treatment on an infection he had carried into the game.

“He was lucky to even play,” Joseph told ONE News.

“He's an incredible guy and he fronted up. But he's paying for it a little bit now. He's stuck over there (in Sydney).”

Smith is set to return to Dunedin on Tuesday before this weekend's crunch fixture against the Crusaders, which will determine if the Highlanders make the playoffs.

No call has yet been made on whether he will be available for selection.

“He is doing well and expected to be discharged [on Tuesday],” read a Highlanders statement.

“A decision on his availability for this weekend's clash against the Crusaders will be made later on in the week.”