Pau Debut

Ben Smith red-carded on Pau debut

The 84-times capped New Zealand back was shown a red for leading with the elbow into contact, and was duly sent from the field by referee Alexandre Ruiz.

The collision in the 51st minute left Stade hooker Lucas Da Silva on the floor and needing medical assistance.

The sending off would prove costly for Pau, who despite a late try for Lucas Rey, ran out 21 – 18 losers to their Parisian hosts.

It’s far from an ideal start to Smith time in France, arriving in the French league following an illustrious and storied career in the sport to date.