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Blues move on without SBW

Auckland - There are no tears in the Blues camp after missing out on Sonny Bill Williams with coach Pat Lam comfortable about his backline resources for next year's Super Rugby season.

Lam was gracious as the Chiefs won the services of Williams.

According to the stuff.co.nz website, the Blues had been in the hunt for Williams because of his family connections in Auckland. But the All Blacks backline utility will play his next stint of New Zealand rugby in Hamilton after agreeing to a new one-year contract.

"I just think it's really good for New Zealand rugby that Sonny Bill has decided to stay and play here," Lam said.

"He was always going to be a bonus for us once we signed Ma'a Nonu and Piri Weepu as well as getting Rudi Wulf back. Getting Isaia Toeava signing on with us was crucial as well. So we are well stocked. But it's obviously good news for the Chiefs."

Lam confirmed that former All Blacks midfield back Benson Stanley was also back in full training and ready to continue playing Super Rugby after his ITM Cup campaign was blighted by ongoing head injuries.

Lam is also hopeful that former All Blacks loose forward Brad Mika will also be able to make a contribution next season after his return to the New Zealand scene from Japan this year was stalled by a serious knee injury.

The five New Zealand squads for next year's Super Rugby season will be named on Wednesday.

 
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