Sonny Bill could play in centres for All Blacks, says Kahui
By AAP, 27 Jul 2008 AAP is a Roar Pro
All Blacks coach Graham Henry says he’s interested to see how league superstar Sonny Bill Williams adapts to rugby union should he get the chance to display his wares for French club Toulon.
The hugely talented Bulldogs forward today reportedly caught a flight to France to start a two year deal with the cashed up French second division side, coached by former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga.
Bulldogs chief executive Todd Greenberg said his club would be looking to take out an injunction to stop Williams playing rugby.
The news created some interest among the All Blacks, with starting New Zealand centre Richard Kahui suggesting Williams could well end up in the centres and be a potential rival for his spot.
Henry revealed he hadn’t seen much of Williams, but was curious to see how the strapping star would adjust to the demands of the 15-a-side code.
“I haven’t really seen Sonny Bill play to be quite frank, from what I’ve heard he will probably be a good athlete,” Henry said.
“It will be interesting to see how he adapts to the rugby game.”
Kahui, one of the youngsters in the New Zealand side said it was a big move for Williams.
“Maybe he (Williams) will get a contract with New Zealand at some stage,” Kahui said.
Asked which position he though Williams could play, Kahui said: “I think he could be in the centres, he’s got pretty good pace.”
The 23-year-old Chiefs centre turned a little bashful when it was suggested Williams could be a rival for his spot.
Henry meanwhile congratulated Australia on their performance in the 34-19 victory over his side.
“They played exceptionally well for 80 minutes, we were disappointed, we had some opportunities in the first half which we didn’t convert, which may have made a difference,” Henry said.
“The game was hugely quick and I think our guys just ran out of composure at the finish or ran out of steam.”
New Zealand five eighth Dan Carter said there was obviously disappointment in the All Blacks changing room.
“But we will regroup in Auckland (next week) and we will continue to be positive,” Carter said.
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