The All Blacks have denied rumours that star centre Sonny Bill Williams may be ruled out of the Rugby World Cup due to an injury.
Williams has been suffering from a calf injury in the build-up to the showpiece event in Japan and the rumours intensified when former World Cup commentator Hamish McKay cited a ‘trustworthy’ source that Williams’ withdrawal was imminent.
“I trust my source absolutely. Watch this space,” McKay said.
However, according to the New Zealand Herald, the All Blacks told media in Japan that Williams is not returning home, without elaborating much on the player’s injury status.
Williams, 34, has played 53 Tests for the All Blacks since 2010 but has struggled with injuries in recent times.
He played two Tests this year – the 16-all draw against South Africa in Wellington and the 36-0 win over Australia in Auckland.
He did however not feature in the recent 92-7 thrashing of Tonga in Hamilton.
Hurricanes midfielder Ngani Laumape is the player on standby in case Williams is withdrawn. He boasts 13 Tests since making his debut in 2017.
The All Blacks open their World Cup campaign against the Springboks in Yokohama on Saturday (September 21).
They will also face Canada (Oita, October 2), Namibia (Tokyo, October 6) and Italy (Toyota, October 12) in Pool B.
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Source – Sport24
