Williams: Privilege to play in Japan

TOKYO - Agence France-Presse

New Zealand’s Sonny Bill Williams celebrates defeating Australia on Aug 25.

All Blacks star Sonny Bill Williams has spoken of the “privilege” of joining Japanese rugby union outfit Panasonic Wild Knights as he prepares to make his debut in the country’s Top League.

The World Cup winner was an onlooker as his new club romped to a 44-13 win over the Ricoh Black Rams in their league opener on Saturday but is expected to play next week against NTT Communications Shining Arcs. “I think it’s a privilege. It’s great to come to a team in Japan. I’m just looking to enhance the team,” Williams said. “For me, my focus here is to just play well for Panasonic.” 

The center was part of the All Blacks line-up that crushed Australia 22-0 last month but their policy of only selecting players who ply their trade in New Zealand will likely put an end to his international career, for the time being at least.