Concussion rules out Smith

Hurricanes prop Toby Smith is retiring from rugby following issues with concussion.

The 31-year-old Smith, a former Australian international who has played more than 100 Super Rugby matches, has opted not to renew his contract with the Hurricanes to preserve his long-term health.

“I am making the difficult choice now to leave the game I love and that has given me so many amazing experiences and where I have made some life-long friendships. I have had some ongoing issues with concussion, and while I am currently symptom-free, I do not wish to put that at further risk.

“I’m really grateful for the support and encouragement I have had from the Hurricanes and New Zealand Rugby and I now look forward to new challenges,” he said.

In addition to being a capped Wallaby, Smith played 108 Super Rugby games for the Chiefs, Rebels and Hurricanes. He played 21 games for the Hurricanes over two seasons.

Hurricanes head coach John Plumtree said that despite injuries and concussion, Smith had been a fantastic Hurricane, epitomised by his outstanding performance in his last match, their 2019 Super Rugby semifinal.

“We will certainly miss him but player welfare must continue to be the No 1 priority,” said Plumtree.

NZR head of professional rugby Chris Lendrum commended Smith on a brave but exciting decision.

“Toby can be proud of his achievements — he has represented a number of teams, and he is a capped Australian international,” said Lendrum.

“The centurions club is an exclusive club and it is remarkable that across three different teams he has amassed 108 games in what is regarded as the world’s toughest inter-regional competition.”