Thursday 29 June 2017 06:58, UK
Ben Smith has been ruled out of the remaining two Tests against the British and Irish Lions, All Blacks' coach Steve Hansen has confirmed.
The New Zealand full-back has been suffering from a concussion and was unable to play all 80 minutes in the first Test last Saturday.
Smith has twice been sidelined with concussion during this year's Super Rugby season and Hansen said: "Long-term concerns have been allayed but we're just going to take our time with him and get him back to where we need him to be, so he's comfortable, we're comfortable.
"It's too important for him and us in the game to chuck him back out. It's just not worth it.
It's too important for him and us in the game to chuck him back out.
"We're just of the opinion that he's had a couple, so let's just be a little bit conservative and not play him."
Smith has been replaced by Israel Dagg for this weekend's second Test in Wellington, with Waisake Naholo taking Dagg's place on the right wing.
Dagg said of Smith's absence: "At the end of the day he's got two little kids and a beautiful wife. You just have to make good decisions.
"It's only rugby. We've got a life after footy to worry about. For him, he's had a few head knocks this year so he's made the right decision.
"Gone are the days when you think you're Superman and strong, and just get up and run around and think these things don't affect you. You've seen the research, you've seen what happens."
