Highlanders to be down a Smith?

The Highlanders could be without influential All Blacks fullback and co-captain Ben Smith for their final round showdown with the Crusaders.

Smith stayed in Australia following their 44-16 loss to the Waratahs on Sunday and has been treated overnight in hospital for an infection.

According to a press release from the Highlanders he is doing well and expected to be discharged tomorrow to travel back to New Zealand. A decision on his availability for this weekend's clash against the Crusaders will be made later on in the week.

The Highlanders need a bonus-point win agaianst their southern rivals to claim the New Zealand conference, but the potential loss of Smith could be a major blow to their hopes.

The trip to Christchurch to face the seven-time champions with play-off places on the line will be a major test without Smith who has been one of the stand-out players in their campaign.

Meanwhile, the Crusaders will have to do without their leader Richie McCaw, who is still battling with a rib injury and will not be fit in time to face the Highlanders.

The Crusaders have already qualified for the play-offs, although defeat at home means they are likely to travel for their knock-out games.

They are hopeful that Sam Whitelock will be back after sitting out the victory over the Blues with a calf strain, whilst Colin Slade is expected to take his place at flyhalf despite leaving the field with concussion.