NZ Rugby resigned to losing Williams, but hopes he may eventually be back

WELLINGTON: New Zealand Rugby is resigned to losing Sonny Bill Williams back to the 13man code, but will leave the door open for a return in an offfield role.

Newlypromoted Super League club Toronto Wolfpack are expected to announce the signing of codehopping star Williams this week.

The 34yearold is believed to have signed a twoseason deal in the vicinity of $10 million and taken a financial stake in the Canadian club, which would make him the highestpaid player in the history of either code.

The Wolfpack is bankrolled by Australian mining tycoon David Argyle, who said in February it was interested in making Williams its marquee signing and had reached out to his agent.

Australia’s Nine News reporter Danny Weidler said Williams had accepted Toronto’s lucrative offer.

‘‘He’s made his mind up to play for the Toronto Wolfpack,’’ Weidler told the Nine News bulletin.

NZ Rugby chairman Brent Impey said he hoped the former

NRL star would not be lost to his home country, or to rugby union.

‘‘We hold him in very high regard and when his playing career finishes, I’m not sure in what role, but I believe he has things to offer us here at New Zealand Rugby, absolutely.’’

Williams finished his All Blacks career with a strong showing against Wales last week at the Rugby World Cup.

Impey said the midfield back’s offfield impact would be remembered as much as his spectacular deeds on the park.

A prime example was the immediate and ongoing help he has offered to fellow Muslims in Christchurch affected by the mosque shootings in March. — AAP/Reuters