SONNY BILL WILLIAMS’S career has taken more turns than a 1970s rally car, so it’s understandable if you’re struggling to keep up.
So here’s the latest: It seems that once he is done chasing Olympic gold with New Zealand’s sevens team in Rio, he will return to the 15-a-side game in the hope of adding a third Rugby World Cup medal to his collection in Japan in 2019 and play against the British and Irish Lions next year.
It is believed that Williams will sign a three-year deal with the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) this week which will end speculation around a potential return to European rugby, Australian rugby league, boxing or some other sporting ambition the ridiculously-talented 30-year-old has supposedly been harbouring since his childhood.
A media conference will take place in Auckland tomorrow morning (Irish time) where the former Crusaders and Chiefs player’s future plans are expected to be revealed.
It is also being tipped that Williams will begin a new chapter in his Super Rugby story with the Auckland-based Blues from next season.
A move to the franchise would see him work under coach Tana Umaga once again following spells at French giants Toulon and Counties Manukau in the ITM Cup, New Zealand’s provincial competition.
It would come as a surprise if Williams were to choose the Blues over the Chiefs after helping the Hamilton-based side to their first Super Rugby title in 2012 while waxing lyrical about the atmosphere at the club under the tutelage of coach Dave Rennie.
His return would also come as a welcome boost for the All Blacks as Steve Hansen looks to form a new midfield partnership following the retirement from international rugby of Conrad Smith and Ma’a Nonu after their World Cup success last year.
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