All Black Ali Williams signs short-term deal with Nottingham
Nottingham has signed All Black international Ali Williams on a one-month deal.
The lock has been released by the New Zealand Rugby Union and his club side the Auckland Blues, so that he can play four matches for the Championship side.
Williams has been out of the game for two years and has had three operations on a troublesome Achilles tendon injury.
The forward is expected to play his first game for Nottingham, as he attempts to return from the career-threatening injury.
Speaking to the media, the 29-year-old said, "I am excited and very grateful that Nottingham has given me this chance. I can't wait to put my boots on and hit the paddock."
Williams has won 61 caps for New Zealand and has been a huge loss for the All Blacks over the two-year period he has been out of the game.
The player and the Auckland Blues will hope that Williams suffers no reaction to the injury, as he attempts to regain his fitness.
Nottingham believes that the deal makes sense. In Williams, they will receive one of the world’s best second-rows and he will give the Championship side a huge boost.
Nottingham director of rugby Glenn Delaney said, "We are delighted to help Ali get back to playing after serious injury. Having a player of his calibre and experience at the club will be a huge benefit to the players and I am sure the supporters will be
excited to have a world-class player in their team."
New Zealand and the Auckland Blues will hope that the lock can return and compete for a place at club and international level next year.
Williams will also hope that his month-long deal with Nottingham will be a successful start as he aims to re-establish himself as the All Blacks' first choice lock ahead of the 2011 World Cup.
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