Blues end Williams' Crusade
Fri, 19 Sep 2008 08:31
All Black lock Ali Williams has signed a two-year contract with the Auckland Rugby Union (ARU) and will be available for the Blues in next year's Super 14 competition.
Following his well-publicised falling out with former Blues coach David Nucifora, when he was infamously kicked off the franchise's tour to South Africa, Williams signed with Tasman in 2007 and played for the Crusaders in this year's Super 14 competition.
Tasman Chief Executive Peter Barr said that "obviously we are disappointed to be losing a player of his calibre from the Crusaders franchise region but we respect his wishes to return to his home province".
New Blues coach Pat Lam is looking forward to Williams return to his home town.
Lam says, considering the continuing overseas player drain, this is a timely boost. Lam added that Williams has had success at Auckland, Super 14 level and at international level. He says with the amount of experience being lost, he is a great asset.
"Ali's a quality player as shown by his performance for the All Blacks this year. We've worked together for many years and I'm thrilled he'll be with Auckland and the Blues next season."
Williams said he's looking forward to playing for Auckland and the Blues again.
"Auckland's my home town and I'm looking forward to returning. I enjoy playing for Pat and Shane Howarth and it will be good to line up alongside some of my old team-mates again next year."
Ali is currently on two weeks leave from his All Black duties.
