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Watch: Ben Smith says he's been 'copping stick ever since' taking rugby sabbatical

November 14, 2018

The veteran fullback missed eight Tests last season with the extended break.

All Blacks fullback Ben Smith says the sabbatical he took from rugby last season helped him recover for 2018, but it came at a price, with teammates giving him grief about it to this day.

Smith opted to take the sabbatical written into his New Zealand Rugby contract towards the end of last year, allowing him to miss eight Tests to spend time with family and recover.

"I've copped stick ever since really," he joked.

"It feels like a while ago now but it was a good chance for me to step out of rugby for a wee bit."

The break was aimed at helping Smith remain in good shape heading towards next year's Rugby World Cup.

"I managed to have a good pre-season and put a bit of time into getting my body right so I could recharge and then try and contribute to the teams I'm involved with.

"I think that helped me."

Smith has spent time playing at both fullback and wing this season for the All Blacks and could fill either role when the team faces Ireland at 8am on Sunday in Dublin.

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