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Pau (France) (AFP)

New Zealand three-quarter Ben Smith will join Pau after next year's Rugby World Cup, the club's president told French broadcaster RMC Sport on Tuesday.

Smith lifted the Webb Ellis trophy in 2015 and the 32-year-old has featured on 76 occasions for his country, scoring 33 tries since making his international debut in 2009.

He will move to an unnamed Japanese club after finishing the 2020 Top 14 season and will be unable to feature for his national side while playing outside of New Zealand.

"It's a great satisfaction. He will have an impact on the squad and considering his calibre it will allow him to help our youngsters," Bernard Pontneau said.

On the other hand, New Zealand back-rower Ardie Savea will not join the club who sit in 11th place in the table, despite originally agreeing a three-year deal in the autumn.

The 36-time All Black has decided to re-sign with the New Zealand Rugby Union.

His brother Julian plays for Toulon in the France's top tier.

© 2018 AFP