Ben Smith has failed to make it back for the Highlanders' season‑defining clash against the Waratahs on Friday.

Smith was expected to make a return from a hamstring strain but has pulled up just short.

Smith's absence means he may have played his last game for the Highlanders – the 31‑31 draw with the Chiefs in early May.

The Highlanders will play the Waratahs at 7.35pm Friday.

[Source:Stuff.co]

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