Sonny Bill Williams has announced he is to stay with New Zealand Rugby until the 2019 World Cup.
The 30-year-old dual-star has previously split his time between rugby union and rugby league, but looks set to stick to the 15-man code for the rest of his career.
Williams has two World Cup winners medals in his pocket after helping the All Blacks win the titles in 2011 and 2015. He is the only man to play in the the rugby union and rugby league World Cup Finals. In 2013, he was on the losing side to Australia in the 13-man code.
Such is Williams' skill-base he is currently part of the New Zealand Sevens team and hopes to compete in this summer's Olympic Games. He has already played in six tournaments since the World Cup last year.
Once returning to the 15-man code, Williams will join the Auckland Blues in Super Rugby. He will be coached by former All Blacks captain Tana Umaga.
Umaga played with Williams at Toulon and is delighted by the move. "First and foremost, he is coming to the Blues to play. But he brings leadership and a thoroughly professional attitude that will hugely benefit our club and our players, especially the young players."
"He can become a great All Black"
Catch up on @SonnyBWilliams' BIG announcement today!#TeamAllBlackshttps://t.co/q6nOrKeuXr
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) June 1, 2016
