Sonny Bill Williams to make rugby union return after 17 months away in bid to face the British and Irish Lions
The centre has not played the 15-man game since the 2015 Rugby World Cup
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sonny Bill Williams will make his first appearance in rugby union in more than 17 months after being named in the Auckland Blues squad for this weekend’s Super Rugby clash against Otago Highlanders, having not played the 15-man game since the 2015 Rugby World Cup final, and opening the door to an international return in time for this summer’s British and Irish Lions tour.
The 31-year-old switched his focus to the Sevens circuit following the World Cup success at Twickenham in an effort to make the squad that would compete at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, but he tore his Achilles tendon during the group stage in Rio last August and played no further part in the tournament.
Following more than seven months on the sidelines, the two-time Rugby World Cup winner will make his return if he comes off the replacements’ bench in Dunedin, and could do so alongside Warren Gatland’s son, Bryn, with the 21-year-old fly-half also named among the replacements.
Should he prove his fitness over the remainder of the Super Rugby season, Williams could return to the All Blacks set-up in time for the British and Irish Lions tour this summer, with Gatland’s side preparing to travel south for the 10-match tour.
The first Test between New Zealand and the Lions takes place on 24 June, giving Williams more than two months to convince head coach Steve Hansen that he deserves a place among his squad for the three-Test tour. Williams could get an early run-out against the Lions though, with the Blues due to face the midweek side on Wednesday 7 June at Eden Park.
Auckland meanwhile will also have All Blacks back-row Steven Luatua back for this weekend’s derby with the Highlanders after he completed his four-week ban for a dangerous tackle, with Tana Umaga’s side looking to improve their record on their three wins and three losses this season.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments