New Zealand
Sonny Bill Williams books rugby comeback
September 30, 2014
Sonny Bill will make a quick return to rugby © Getty Images
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Code-hopper Sonny Bill Williams is poised to play his first game of rugby union in two years just two days after joining his new province. Counties Manukau say Williams will join the province on Monday and is set to face Auckland two days later.

"It is great news for our fans, sponsors and union that he will play ITM Cup this season when he was not expected to join us till next year," said province boss Andrew Maddock.

Williams will also feature in the Steelers' final regular season game against Tasman on October 12. He will play in the Premiership play-offs if sixth-placed Counties Manukau make the top four.

Williams had previously indicated he would not be playing in the provincial competition and the New Zealand Rugby Union said he didn't have to play to be a candidate for the All Blacks' tour of the United States and Great Britain in November.

"This just shows how dedicated he is to immersing himself back into rugby and gaining the respect of his new team and supporters," said Maddock.

The 29-year-old has signed a two-year contract with New Zealand Rugby. His second stint in rugby comes after the Sydney Roosters lost their NRL preliminary final to South Sydney on Friday.

Williams' only other taste of ITM Cup rugby came in 2010, when he played six games for Canterbury soon after two years at French club Toulon where he played under Steelers coach Tana Umaga.

He was part of the All Blacks squad which won the World Cup in 2011 and won the Super Rugby title with the Chiefs a year later.

He is reportedly keen to resume his professional boxing career.

© AAP

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