ABs back Williams’ return to boxing
NELSON: The All Blacks have given Sonny Bill Williams the green light to box again, believing his December fight will not impact on their test programme.
Williams will return to the ring on December 1 in Sydney in the headline fight of the ‘‘Banger under the Hanger’’ promotion against a yettobenamed opponent.
The fight falls on the weekend after the All Blacks’ final test of the year, against Italy in Rome.
Coach Steve Hansen has received assurances from Williams and his agent, Khoder Nasser, that the fight will have no impact on his training and playing during the November tour of Europe.
‘‘I think he’s just going to get off the plane and do it. It’s the sort of athlete he is,’’ Hansen said.
‘‘He’s pretty confident. Khoder’s confident that what’s going to take place won’t be of hindrance to him. So you’ve got to back their judgement.’’
The fight promotion is to raise money for a worthy cause and Hansen understands it will not be as physically demanding as Williams’ seven professional fights.
Williams’ most recent bout was nearly four years ago against Kiwibased American Chauncy Welliver.
The 33yearold is the oldest member of this year’s All Blacks squad and has battled knee and shoulder injuries this season. — AAP