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Make the most of Sonny Bill Williams in the Pool rounds, because come the RWC quarter finals and onwards, he’ll be sitting in the stands with the rest of us.
The only exception to that rule will be a catastrophe befalling Sonny Bill’s nemesis, Ma’a Nonu.
It’s amazing how the sands shift between the Super Rugby and International stage.
To think Ma’a Nonu (and Cory Jane) hardly registered on the radar following a dismal Super Rugby campaign. Now, only weeks later, superior form on the international stage has forced Nonu’s entry back into Henry’s First XV.
Conversely, Sonny Bill was the standout second-five of a torrid Super Rugby season and had done more than enough to justify starting rights in Henry’s lineup. In fact, I wouldn’t be surprised if the big man had the hallowed number ‘12’ etched somewhere on his torso.
That was until Nonu wrenched the said jersey from William’s grasp. So back to the tattoo studio Sonny Bill traipsed to replace 12 with 22.
22 on a good day.
Because bench duties are the domain of the versatile. Players like Cory Jane, Isaia Toeava, Richard Kahui, Israel Dagg and to a lesser extent, Zac Guildford, have broader portfolios than Sonny Bill does.
Meaning while Williams sits second in line to the second-five throne, he’s virtually peasant-class when it comes to the pecking order on the bench. That’s why SBW is watching the All Blacks v Wallabies Tri-Nations decider from the stands on Saturday.
It’s a bleak scenario and somewhat deflating after the elation of RWC selection, which was the reason he switched codes in the first place. Rugby’s strongest brand will put on a brave face, but he’ll be gutted.
Which is fantastic.
Because from Sonny Bill’s perspective, this hideous situation puts him in the exact frame of mind required to have murderous intent with every opportunity afforded him in the Pool rounds.
What’s more, he’ll be running at full capacity with a full belly, a luxury denied him during his August Ramadan fasting regime, albeit self-inflicted.
Perhaps prayer and fasting is what Sonny Bill is relying on. As at this point, it’s going to take divine intervention to see his dream of Rugby World Cup greatness beyond the Pool rounds come to pass.
I hope he gets a shot.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.