New Zealander · Levin, New Zealand · Born 12 October 1981Conrad Smith was a New Zealand centre who partnered Ma'a Nonu in a famed midfield combination, winning back-to-back Rugby World Cups in 2011 and 2015.
A qualified lawyer who studied throughout his playing career, Conrad Smith was also the most technically precise centre New Zealand has produced in the professional era, his 94 Tests and back-to-back World Cup winner's medals in 2011 and 2015 earned through defensive organisation and game intelligence rather than the power that defined the men around him. He signed with the Hurricanes and made his All Blacks debut in 2004 at just 22 years old, developing into one of the most technically astute and reliable centres in world rugby. Smith formed one of the most celebrated midfield partnerships in All Blacks history alongside Ma'a Nonu, their contrasting styles — Smith's calm distribution and defensive organisation complementing Nonu's power — anchoring New Zealand's midfield for over a decade. He captained the Hurricanes in Super Rugby and earned 94 Test caps for New Zealand between 2004 and 2015, scoring 130 points. Smith was a key figure in the All Blacks' back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs in 2011 and 2015, bringing composure and tactical intelligence to a squad laden with attacking talent. Following the 2015 tournament, he moved to France to join Pau, continuing to play at a high level before retiring in 2018. A qualified lawyer throughout his playing career, Smith has become a prominent advocate for player welfare, working for the New Zealand Rugby Players' Association and later the International Rugby Players' Association as Chief of Rugby Operations, before returning to New Zealand Rugby in a high-performance leadership role.
All Blacks centre, back-to-back World Cup winner
How They Played
Smith was renowned for his exceptional game intelligence and ability to read play, making him a master of positioning and decision-making in the midfield. He possessed excellent passing skills and timing, often creating opportunities for teammates rather than seeking individual glory. His defensive work was consistently strong, and he was known for his reliable hands and ability to execute under pressure.
Lasting Impact
Smith is remembered as one of the most intelligent and consistent centres in All Blacks history, setting the standard for midfield play during New Zealand's dominant period in the 2010s.
Career Honours
- Rugby World Cup winner 2011, 2015
- Rugby Championship/Tri Nations titles
| Club | Period | Apps | Tries | Shirt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hurricanes | 2004–2015 | 116 | 8 | #13 |
| Highlanders | 2003–2004 | 171 | 8 | #13 |
| Pau | 2015–2018 | 68 | 12 | — |
 New Zealand | — | 94 | 17 | — |
New Zealander Athletes