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SBW to play for Chiefs

SBW to play for Chiefs

10/31/2011 03:49:06 AM

After an extended period of indecision over his future, Sonny Bill Williams has re-signed with the NZRU and will play for the Chiefs in the 2012 Super 15.

Williams hinted at the move earlier on Monday, saying on Twitter: 'I hear hamilton is nice'.

And the not-so cryptic clue was confirmed in a NZRU release later that afternoon.

It ends a roller-coaster ride of will he, won't he involving Williams, who indicated earlier in the year he was going to stay in New Zealand but said it was '50-50' as late as last weekend.

NZRU general manager Neil Sorenson hailed the re-signing of the 26-year-old, on a one-year deal.

"We're delighted that Sonny has chosen to continue playing his rugby in New Zealand next year," Sorenson said.

"He was exciting to watch in Super Rugby this year, and he played an important role in the spectacular Rugby World Cup winning All Blacks side.

"He's a special player who creates some real excitement and interest in the game with his style of rugby.

We're looking forward to seeing him create some more excitement in a Chiefs, as well as an All Blacks, jersey next year."

Williams will work under new Chiefs coach Dave Rennie along with Wayne Smith, who has stepped down from his All Blacks backs coaching post to link up with the Hamilton-based franchise.

"We're rapt Sonny's joining the Chiefs," Rennie said. "He had a very good World Cup and his professionalism and work ethic will have a great influence on what is a very young team."

Williams joins a franchise that finished last of the five New Zealand sides in 2011 and has been on the decline since losing to the Bulls in the 2009 Super 14 final.

But things are starting to look up for the Chiefs, given a backline that can now call on All Blacks stars Aaron Cruden, Williams and Richard Kahui.

Williams will also retain the right to continue his boxing career in a 'limited number' of professional fights.

 
Photograph Copyright : Getty Images

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