Ali Williams recalled to All Blacks preliminary Tri-Nations Cup 2011 squad - Rugby News
Ali Williams has been included in the All Blacks squad for the upcoming Tri-nations Cup 2011. Ali Williams has not played much of rugby for the past few years but his previous record is still attractive to the New Zealand selectors.
Williams has been struggling with hamstring and Achilles injuries since for the last two years and has participated very little in the just concluded Super Rugby season 2011. Williams started off his International career for the All Blacks in 2002 and has
earned 61 caps for his team. The 30-year-old lock has always remained the first choice of the selectors and has participated in all major events since his debut. He has participated in both Rugby World Cups that New Zealand played in 2003 and 2007. Williams
earned fame as being one of the best locks of the world during the world showpiece of 2003.
The star player has also played in Super Rugby championship for the Blues and Crusaders. He made his Super Rugby debut for the Crusaders in 2002 before shuffling to the Blues in 2009.
Responding to the news of his inclusion in the preliminary squad of Tri-Nations Cup 2011, Williams was exuberant. Williams said that he is ready for the big challenge and will try his best to prove his selection right in the All Blacks side. He further said
that, “You have a few weeks that you get down and in the dumps. But I have never really doubted the fact that rugby is what I want or questioned what I wanted to do ... I'm full of spark. I'm all sparked up. That was my dream. I haven't put it on yet. I'm
in the squad and now I have to add to it.”
Ali Williams admitted that he was surprised with his selection as he was out of action for some time now. He said that, “I was very uncertain, more around the future of my life to be honest - whether I'd be able to walk or run again. Once I knew I was playing
rugby I knew I could make it.”
Tri-Nations Cup 2011 will kick off on July 23 and the final team for the event is expected to be announced this week.
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