SBW omits big names in farewell Cruden returns to Chiefs

Israel Dagg and Dave Rennie cracked the long list of people Sonny Bill Williams thanked in a heartfelt farewell message posted on social media, but there was no mention of Richie McCaw and Steve Hansen.

Williams, who has signed a two-year deal with the Toronto Wolfpack which is reported to be worth $10 million, posted a video message to his almost one million Twitter followers on Friday.

Williams thanked New Zealand Rugby chairman Brent Impey, and head of professional rugby Chris Lendrum, but departing chief executive Steve Tew joined All Blacks great McCaw and recently departed head coach Hansen on the outer.

‘‘Obviously, my time in New Zealand has come to an end but I think it’s only right that I send a message of gratitude to those that have helped me along my journey,’’ Williams said.

‘‘Influential figures in my career . . . obviously Tana Umaga, Jonny Wilkinson, John Kirwan, Dave Rennie, Philippe SaintAndre, you guys put that belief in me when there was still the unknown whether I could go all the way or not, so I’m forever thankful.

‘‘Being able to rub shoulders and play alongside some special players and some special talent. Izzy Dagg, I guess the best captain that I’ve ever played alongside, Kieran Read, Liam Messam, Keven Mealamu, Ma’a Nonu, Jerome Kaino . . . the list goes on and on. The Franks brothers, Sam Cane.’’

The 34-year-old played the last of his 58 tests last weekend, when the All Blacks beat Wales in the bronze medal match at the World Cup in Japan.

Aaron Cruden’s return to the Chiefs has been confirmed by the Hamilton-based franchise.

Stuff revealed the first-five eighth was in line for a shock return to New Zealand in September – yesterday the franchise confirmed the former All Black was in their 2020 squad.

The 30-year-old will return home from France after signing a one-year deal, eight years after starting his Super career with the Hurricanes. He last played for the Chiefs in 2017.

Cruden left for a deal worth $3.7m to move to Montpellier in France. He is set to join the Kobelco Steelers in Japan after next year’s Super Rugby competition.

Cruden’s arrival should mean Damian McKenzie plays at fullback next season for the Chiefs, allowing Cruden to play No 10.

McKenzie ruptured the ACL in his right knee playing against the Blues, which forced him to miss not only the rest of the season with the Chiefs, but also the World Cup.