SONNY BILL WILLIAMS will return to rugby union after signing a two-year deal to join the Chiefs, the New Zealand Rugby Union has confirmed.
The contract will see the Sydney Roosters man switch codes in time for the 2015-16 Super Rugby season, and is likely make him available for a call-up to the All Blacks squad for the 2015 Rugby World Cup or the sevens side for the 2016 Olympic Games.
Williams has scored six tries in 19 appearances for the All Blacks, and NZRU CEO Steve Tew believes his return will be a huge boost for Super Rugby and the national side.
“Sonny showed in his two years with New Zealand rugby that he is an outstanding talent and was a real asset to our game,” he said. “We are delighted to have agreed terms which will see him return to rugby (union) in 2015.
“We think it is great that he has made his aspirations clear and if he plays well enough to be considered for selection for those teams (World Cup and Olympics), then that is fantastic.”
Chiefs coach Dave Rennie added: ”We made no secret that we were keen to get Sonny back in a Chiefs jersey.
“He’s not only a quality player but adds huge value to our environment off the field.”
Williams most recently featured for New Zealand as they finished as runners-up to Australia in the Rugby League World Cup, and previously played for the Chiefs in 2012, making 18 appearances.
