Nanai-Williams re-signs with Chiefs

Cape Town - Tim Nanai-Williams is set to give the Chiefs a major boost by re-signing with the franchise.

Fairfax understands Nanai-Williams has committed to the Hamilton-based side despite being pursued by the Blues, who were keen to offer him the opportunity of linking up with cousin Sonny Bill Williams.

Nanai-Williams, 27, represented the Chiefs between 2010-2015, winning two titles, and was a firm favourite at the franchise because of his try-scoring instincts and ability to play a number of positions.

The Chiefs have lacked experience in their outside backs in recent years, but Nanai-Williams will give them options at centre, wing and fullback.

Nanai-Williams represented Samoa at last year's Rugby World Cup and also pursued his dream of representing the Samoan sevens team at the Olympics, although the island nation failed to qualify. Since then, he has been playing for Ricoh Black Rams in Japan.

Nanai-Williams may not be the only player to return from Japan, with indications that Chiefs legend Liam Messam will also make his way back to the franchise after his stint with Toshiba.