Ben Smith and Nasi Manu might not be able to offer much on the field but they should have plenty to offer behind the scenes.
The co-captains of the great 2015 championship team have both been given roles to support the club for the 2023 season.
Manu, who battled cancer in 2019 before returning to play for Tonga and Otago, most recently played for Mid Canterbury in the Heartland Championship.
He has joined the Highlanders in an operations and player-mentoring role, and has not yet called time on his playing career.
"The opportunity to work in a club that I love with and to mentor some younger players was too good to turn down," Manu said.
"I don’t know if it signals the end of my playing days just yet. At the moment I am just excited about being able to continue to work in rugby and with the Highlanders."
Highlanders rugby general manager Greg O’Brien said Manu was widely respected within the club by both past and present players.
"Nasi came here in 2010 and had an immediate impact on everyone at the club — his engaging approach off the field and uncompromising play on it certainly left a lasting impression," O’Brien said.
"Nasi’s professional attitude and passion for the club will provide a positive influence for many of our up-and-coming players. His unique perspective and inspiration come from a guy who has been there and done that in rugby terms."
Highlanders great Ben Smith — turn the page to hear more from him — has already dabbled in coaching, having worked with Otago during the NPC.
He will work with the Highlanders for two days a week focusing on the back three counter-attack.
Coach Clarke Dermody was keen to utilise Smith’s knowledge if possible.
"Ben has only just retired from a great rugby career, and I knew he probably wasn’t likely to want to commit all his time to coaching straight away," Dermody said.
"As one of world rugby’s best counter-attackers from fullback, he understands the role of the back three in detail, and the knowledge he will be able to impart to our players will be invaluable.”
