Ben Smith to leave All Blacks following 2019 season after signing with French club Pau

December 13, 2018
All Black Ben Smith during the Investec Rugby Championship match. All Blacks v South Africa. Westpac Stadium, Wellington, New Zealand. Saturday 15th September 2018. © Copyright Photo: Grant Down / www.photosport.nz

Ben Smith has confirmed he's leaving the All Blacks.

The fullback has announced he'll join French club Pau after next year's Rugby World Cup in Japan.

The 32-year-old took to social media to inform Highlanders fans of his big move.

"Hey team just thought I would let you know that my family and I are heading over to France at the end of next year," said Smith.

"It's been a tough decision, but we are looking forward to a new challenge. The Highlanders, Otago and the All Blacks have been teams that I have always dreamed of playing for.

"I feel pretty privileged to have played for all those teams, but first off looking forward to a big 2019 and the challenges that that brings."

Smith is a two-time Rugby World Cup winner who's played 75 Tests for New Zealand.

The All Blacks confirmed the news today.

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