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Sonny Bill sticking with rugby until 2019, headed to Blues

Sonny Bill Williams could be unstoppable at the Rio Olympics. (AP Photo/SNPA, John Cowpland)
31st May, 2016
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In a coup for New Zealand’s bottom-placed Super Rugby side, the Blues have announced the signing of dual international Sonny Bill Williams through until the end of 2019.

The Auckland-based side had something of an inside running on SBW’s signature, the two-time World Cup winner wanting to live near family based in New Zealand’s largest city.

Williams was also keen to once again be coached by Tana Umaga, his coach at Toulon, who first lured him away from rugby league to play rugby in France.

“Sonny is a marquee international player, and first and foremost he is here to play. His experience and expertise will be a major asset to a young backline,” Umaga said.

“Off the field he brings leadership and a thoroughly professional attitude and approach that will hugely benefit our club and our players.”

It is understood the deal with the Blues will allow Sonny Bill to continue his boxing career, as well as pursue a third World Cup title with the All Blacks at the 2019 tournament in Japan. But first he is pursuing Olympic gold with the All Blacks sevens at Rio.

“In our view Sonny is one of the most prized signatures in rugby right now,” Blues Chief Executive Michael Redman said.

“This announcement is a further reflection that we are moving in the right direction, that Sonny relishes the challenge and opportunity to help us realise our ambitions and believes we have the environment, coaching and direction to achieve them.”

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This is the longest contract Williams has signed since he walked out on his five-year deal with the Bulldogs in the NRL, way back in 2008.

It also effectively puts to bed any speculation that Williams will return to the 13-man game at any point in the future – he will be 34 when this contract expires.

Although, when you’re talking about Sonny Bill Williams, anything is possible.

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