Born: November 21, 1988 in Palmerston North
Position: Halfback
Club: Highlanders
Height: 1.71
Weight: 83kg
Caps: 87
TJ Perenara has closed the gap, but the All Blacks just seem a little more settled when Smith is on the park.
He has been selected for every New Zealand squad since 2013, including the 2015 Rugby World Cup squad, where he started in all the knockout games.
The 30-year-old became New Zealand's most-capped scrumhalf during 2018 season, breaking Justin Marshall's long-standing record in November.
Smith still owns the best No.9 pass in world rugby and was back to his best for the Highlanders at the tail-end of the Super Rugby season.
Given his magnificent display against the Wallabies at Eden Park, the signs are looking good for the All Blacks that a few vintage Aaron Smith displays are on the horizon.
Newshub.
Essential Guide to 2019 Rugby World Cup
Everything you need to know about rugby and the World Cup...
The ninth Rugby World Cup kicks off on September 20 in Japan - the first time it has been hosted in Asia.
