Coach says Sonny Bill Williams deserves special incentives like Dan Carter and Richie McCaw
The Crusaders head coach, Todd Blackadder, says Sonny Bill Williams deserves the same treatment that Dan Carter and All Blacks’ skipper Richie McCaw get for re-signing with New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU). Talking to the press on May 23rd, Blackadder
said that Williams has got the class so he should be given the respect.
Williams, who made his Super Rugby debut on March 4, has played 10 games for the New Zealander derby and has asserted his position in the team. He scored his first in the debut game against the Waratahs.
Earlier, Williams made his first International rugby start of his career for All Blacks, on November 6th, 2010. Although he has little International experience under his belt, he remained very impressive in the field.
Crusaders coach, Todd Blackadder, applauded the versatile player and said he is as important to the All Blacks as Carter and McCaw. Blackadder added that, "I think he's just as important to be honest. He's just been inspirational. He's played some fantastic
rugby for the Crusaders and when you look at just how important he is for the World Cup and beyond I just think he's one of those players that is just getting better and better, strength to strength and he's a role model."
Carter and McCaw have been given special incentives by New Zealand Rugby Union to retain their services. Both of them were offered flexible contracts with handsome packages.
Responding to a question regarding Sonny Bill Williams’ affiliation with boxing, Blackadder argued that he has only one or two boxing matches which are not an issue. Williams will take part in his fourth professional boxing match on June 5th during
a bye week for the Crusaders.
Blackadder further said that, “For the sake of one boxing fight or two boxing fights a year, I think it's a great trade off to keep him in New Zealand. It's just common sense.”
Sonny Bill Williams will make a come-back from a knee injury for the Crusaders on May 29th, against the Queensland Reds.
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