Lions fly-half Chris Smith relishing rare chance to face All Blacks

Lions fly-half Chris Smith says Tuesday’s meeting with the All Blacks at Ellis Park could be a once-in-a-career opportunity as the Johannesburg-based side prepare to test themselves against New Zealand.

The All Blacks have beaten every South African United Rugby Championship team they have faced on their tour so far and will aim to add the Lions to their list of victories in their final midweek match.

For Smith, who enjoyed an impressive season with the Lions in the URC, the fixture represents a significant occasion for the franchise and its players.

“Yeah, obviously it’s massive. For me, being on the slightly older side, it’s probably a once-in-a-career opportunity,” Smith told reporters on Monday.

“I’m really looking forward to it, going up against Richie Mo’unga, who’s an All Black legend. It’s a very exciting and very cool opportunity for all of us.”

The Lions reached the URC play-offs for the first time in their history last season, and Smith believes the match offers them a chance to measure their progress rather than an obligation to defeat one of the world’s leading teams.

He said the Lions were approaching the contest without pressure, describing it as an opportunity to see how they compare with the All Blacks after preparing thoroughly for the challenge.

“It’s a free hit out to play against one of the best teams in the world that have been for a very long time,” noted Smith.

“We’ve obviously really prepped well. But I think if we can get a good result, then it’ll just sort of confirm what we’re doing as a Lions group, that we’re moving in the right direction.”

Smith will line up against Richie Mo’unga, one of New Zealand’s most renowned playmakers, but said he would not attempt to imitate the All Blacks fly-half’s attacking style.

Instead, he intends to focus on the qualities that have served him throughout his own career and on carrying out his role within the Lions’ game plan.

“It obviously doesn’t help if I go try and play a Richie Mo’unga game.

“It’s never been my game. So obviously, I’ll stick to what I do best and obviously serve my team as best I can.

“He can do all the magic. I’ll enjoy watching him while I do all of my good things.”

The encounter at Ellis Park is scheduled to begin at 19:00 on Tuesday.