Ben Smith's prospect of playing for the Highlanders in a crucial Super Rugby clash remains in doubt as he prepares for a third night in a Sydney hospital.
The All Black fullback was hospitalised with an infection following the Highlanders' loss to the Waratahs on Sunday.
The infection is thought to have come from a superficial graze on Smith's leg.
It was hoped he would have been discharged on Tuesday but team doctor Greg Macleod said it had since been decided he needed to stay in hospital on Tuesday night to continue treatment.
Dr Macleod says Smith is nonetheless responding well to treatment and is due to be released on Wednesday morning, at which point he is set to fly back to Dunedin.
The Highlanders are placed fourth on the Super Rugby table with one round to go but might need to beat the Crusaders in Christchurch on Saturday to ensure a place in the playoffs.
A spokeswoman for the Highlanders says no decision has been made on whether Smith will play.
Share
