New Zealand's Ben Smith proved elusive in Wellington © Getty Images

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Reaction: Nonu and Pienaar are Wellington casualties

Matches: New Zealand 14 - 10 South Africa

Ben Smith proved himself the most flexible player in world rugby with a shining display at inside-centre for the All Blacks in their 14-10 Rugby Championship win over the Springboks on Saturday.

The 28-year-old shifted from wing to the unfamiliar role after veteran midfielder Ma'a Nonu was forced out of the Test at half-time, having suffered a suspected broken arm. It was the fourth role in the space of eight Tests for Smith.

He played centre for the latter stages of New Zealand's unbeaten 2013 season and has started Tests at right wing and fullback this year.

The change of role didn't stop Smith having a major influence, making a number of elusiveness bursts. Despite the heavy traffic closer to the forwards, he beat 10 defenders and ran for 91 metres. All Blacks backline coach Ian Foster says he has never seen a more versatile player.

"He just trusted his instincts out there and I thought he did it really well. His footwork was good and he's been hugely valuable for us again."

Smith joked a shift to first fly-half is on the cards although he will need to start practising his goalkicking.

"I enjoyed my time, you get a lot of ball at 12, but I just like being out there whatever the position," he said.

Smith knew a position switch would be on the cards when he saw Nonu's face after he damaged his arm during a tackle on Springboks captain Jean de Villiers in the 31st minute. Smith is amazed Nonu played on until the break in obvious pain.

"I could tell by his face. He's usually pretty durable Ma'a, he doesn't like to come off, so when he does have a problem, you know it's pretty serious."

After a scratchy start to his Test career, Smith is among the most irreplaceable members of the squad, having started the last 21 Tests.