All Blacks change rules for Sonny Bill
The All Blacks said they had relaxed their rules to clear the way for super code-hopper Sonny Bill Williams to slot straight back into the team when he returns to Rugby Union later this year.
Williams, who is completing his second stint in Australia's National Rugby League, would normally have to participate in New Zealand's domestic NPC competition before being eligible for All Black honours.
But the New Zealand Rugby Union said an exemption would be made, allowing Williams to play the world champions' end-of-year tour to the United States and Europe.
"SonnyBWilliams gets exemption to be selected for end of year tour even if he doesn't play ITM Cup," the All Blacks said on their official Twitter feed.
NZRU Chief Executive Steve Tew confirmed the stance, first issued in the social media.
"We have made a big investment in Sonny Bill Williams and if the coaches believe we get the most out of that investment by taking him on the tour in November then they should have the discretion to do so," Tew told reporters on Monday.
"That's entirely in the hands of the All Blacks coaches and Sonny Bill himself because he will have to make an assessment about whether touring at the end of the year is the best thing for him or not."
Williams has linked with New Zealand's Counties-Manukau and could potentially play with the provincial team after finishing the National Rugby League season with the Roosters.
The Roosters, however, are firming as favourites to retain their NRL title and with the final on October 4, it is debatable whether the 29-year-old would be keen to play on.
"There were a number of unknowns around the situation which made it sensible to leave some flexibility," Tew said.
"If he were not to play, the board have the discretion to allow him not to play and they have exercised that discretion in advance, but it is still anticipated he will play (provincial rugby) because we think that will be of benefit to him anyway."
Williams began his career in Rugby League, winning the 2004 NRL title with the Canterbury Bulldogs in his debut season before controversially walking out on the team mid-contract to play Rugby Union in France.
He was equally successful in the 15-man code, contributing to the 2011 World Cup win by the All Blacks and snaring the 2012 Super Rugby title with the Chiefs before returning to the NRL with the Sydney Roosters last year, picking up another title with the side.
The All Blacks play the United States in Chicago on November 2, before heading to Europe for Tests against England, Scotland and Wales.
Williams' return has been timed to reinforce the All Blacks before they defend their World Cup title in England next year.
Source: AFP
