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KEY POINTS:
It is perhaps a touch too simplistic to suggest that Conrad Smith supplies the brains and Ma'a Nonu the brawn to a mighty midfield partnership arguably unrivalled in the Super 14 rugby competition.
But there is no question that Smith's ability to think on his feet and bark
orders to those around him are qualities Hurricanes coach Colin Cooper places great store in.
At 27 and with 24 test caps behind him for the All Blacks, Smith is entering what should be the most productive phase of his career on the international stage, and below the top tier with both the Hurricanes and Wellington.
His intelligence has already earned him a law degree while in rugby terms his growing influence is obvious, as evidenced by his match-winning try for the Hurricanes against the Highlanders last week.
Smith had been promoted from the reserves bench for the second half of that game, along with Nonu, and the pair were instrumental in the Hurricanes sneaking home 22-17.
More of the same will be required tomorrow night in Christchurch where they are two of eight starting personnel changes made by Cooper for the match against the Crusaders.
The reigning Super 14 champions at home represents one of the toughest assignments outside of the international arena, and it is a challenge Smith knows only too well.
The Hurricanes have not beaten the Crusaders in their last six encounters and their overall record against the South Island powerhouse reads three wins and 12 losses.
The Hurricanes have failed to flatter, both in pipping the Highlanders and a week before when going down to the Waratahs, but their long suffering fans have grown used to the side's Jekyll and Hyde persona.
Cooper has responded to his team's shortcomings by making multiple changes to his starting 15, including reinstalling the midfield pairing of Nonu and Smith, and welcoming back regular skipper Rodney So'oialo from suspension.
Despite what the history books suggest, anything is possible tomorrow, providing the Hurricanes hit their targets hard, hold on to possession and build pressure against a team who have created a dynasty by virtue of an ability to keep their cool in times of distress.
"It will be a big game but it has the potential to be good for us. If we can come through with a win it will be a huge boost for us," Smith said.
"It is a big challenge but hopefully it is something we can rise to. The Crusaders in Christchurch is right up there, it's equally tough trying to win on some of those away grounds in Africa and Canberra."
Smith acknowledged that the Hurricanes to date had not done themselves any favours.
"We haven't had an ideal start and we don't exactly have any form behind us, but if we can get a win and play really well, that can kick-start our campaign."
The Crusaders have not been without their own worries, a shoulder injury ruling out fullback Leon MacDonald and a broken arm sidelining No 1 hooker Corey Flynn while talismanic skipper Richie McCaw was only yesterday cleared to play after battling a head knock.
Lock Brad Thorn has also been given the okay to take his place after a heel injury forced him to the sidelines, but halfback Andy Ellis (ankle) needs more time to recover.
Smith was pleased with how seamlessly he and Nonu went about their work when paired together for the first time this year against the Highlanders.
They have played alongside one another on countless occasions at provincial and international level and their now instinctive understanding is a strength the Hurricanes cannot do without.
Smith agreed that their familiarity had its benefits.
"Since I started playing for Wellington he's always been there, either inside or outside me.
"It's good having someone next to you who you have played a lot of footie together with.
"We've found over the years that between the two of us we can cover most aspects of what is required in a midfield.
"That's not to say there's still not a lot of hard work to do."
Starting tomorrow night in Christchurch.
- NZPA
