Ben Smith is making a smart decision taking time away from the game - McLeod

Highlanders assistant coach Scott McLeod says All Blacks fullback Ben Smith is making a smart decision by taking time away from the game.

Smith, who will play for the Highlanders against the Crusaders, will trigger a sabbatical option following the All Blacks' second Bledisloe Cup test against Australia next month.

The sabbatical clause allows him to miss the eight remaining tests this year.

The 31‑year‑old has struggled with injuries this year, including concussion and an ear infection, and had his head bandaged at training yesterday.

The Crusaders will host the Highlanders at 7.35pm Saturday while the Brumbies will host the Hurricanes at 9.35pm tomorrow.

In other quarter finals, the Lions will take on the Sharks at 12.30am Sunday while the Chiefs will take on the Stormers at 3am Sunday.

Source: RadioNZ