Surprisingly overlooked by Andy Robinson in terms of starting roles for the Six Nations, Smith represents the future for not only England and Leicester but the Lions as well.

A prodigiously talented and versatile back, he made his England debut at the age of 20 and can consider himself a tad unfortunate not to have been in the World Cup squad 18 months ago.

But he has used his disappointment to good effect and it is testament to his ability that having become the youngest player to pull on a Leicester shirt in a competitive match - aged 18 - he has carved out a niche for himself as one of their key performers.

Powerful both in defence and attack, Smith is also a skilful ball player and plenty of defences – both domestically and in Europe – can testify that his pace is also far from sluggish.

The only teenager to have won the Heineken Cup, it is hard to see Smith getting much - if any - Test action in New Zealand, but the experience will be invaluable when his chance comes in the future.