Williams reveals future plans
Rugby Union,
Last updated:
All Blacks centre Sonny Bill Williams is set for a short stint in Japanese rugby before switching codes to play rugby league.
The 26-year-old, who has already played both codes internationally for New Zealand, will finish his spell with the Chiefs at the end of the Super Rugby season to join the Panasonic Wild Knights on a short-term deal.
He will then return to play in the NRL in 2013 but has yet to reveal which club will benefit from his services.
The Auckland-born powerhouse began his rugby career with the Sydney-based Bulldogs, making his professional debut at the age of 18.
He made seven appearances for the New Zealand rugby league side before a switch of code and country in 2008.
The talented centre played two seasons for Toulon before opting to go back Down Under to play with Canterbury in the ITM Cup, and the Crusaders in the Super Rugby competition.
The All Blacks came calling in 2010 and Williams has, to date, scored six tries from 17 appearances in the famous colours.
He joined the Chiefs this year and enjoyed his time at the club and the tough-tackling three-quarter has refused to rule out a return to the 15-man code after another stint in rugby league.
"The decision to come to the Chiefs was a pretty big thing, but it has really helped me, especially off the field," he said. "I didn't think I would love rugby as much as I have.
"If things work out I would love to come back and play for the All Blacks in the future. But I know there is a group of players who are coming through. I've chosen my path now I've got to walk it."


