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Cross-code star Sonny Bill Williams could make return to international arena, but not with New Zealand
Former All Black Sonny Bill Williams is reportedly eyeing a return to international rugby league but it might not be in the familiar black jersey.
Williams has hopped back to rugby league from rugby union after signing a lucrative two-year deal with the Toronto Wolfpack to play in the European Super League.
According to the Daily Telegraph, Williams is keen to play for Samoa in the 13-man code, eyeing up his debut against England next year in Sydney.
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The 34-year-old played 12 tests for the Kiwis after making his debut in 2004. His last test for the Kiwis was in 2013 before he returned to rugby to be part of the 2015 World Cup-winning All Blacks side.
Samoa coach Matt Parish told the Daily Telegraph he hadn’t been in talks with Williams but said he knows people who have.
“Sonny Bill would be massive for our team in terms of what we are trying to achieve,” Parish told the Daily Telegraph.
“My indications are that he is very keen. I definitely think playing for Samoa would appeal to Sonny at this stage of his career.
“We will be exploring every option. He is a leader on and off the field. Everywhere he goes Sonny Bill has a massive influence.
“Anything is a possibility. His leadership would be invaluable off the field and, on the field, his footy speaks for itself.”
While interest remains high within the Samoan camp about potentially acquiring Williams, New Zealand head coach Michael Maguire hasn’t discounted a possible return to the Kiwis for their former star man.
“Obviously I’ll talk to my senior players about whoever might be able to come in,” he told One News during the Kiwis’ test series against Great Britain.
“You’ve got to look at what we’re building and when people are coming in, are they driving towards where we want to go? It’s definitely an open opportunity.”
Williams played against Samoa during the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.
– Additional reporting by RugbyPass
This article first appeared on nzherald.co.nz and was republished with permission.
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