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Cape Town - The All Blacks have confirmed that they will pick centre Sonny Bill Williams against the Springboks in their Tri-Nations clash in Port Elizabeth on Saturday.
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New Zealand's assistant coach, Wayne Smith, told Die Burger newspaper that Williams will start a game for the first time in the Tri-Nations.
Richard Kahui is expected to be Williams' partner in the midfield.
"Yes, I think the time is right for Sonny Bill to come into the starting line-up. He especially played well on last year's tour against England and Scotland.
"After that we again picked him in the starting team against Wales, because we told the players beforehand that they will be rewarded if they play the best in their positions," said Smith.
Smith said that Williams was tired at the start of the Tri-Nations due to his boxing commitments (Williams is also a professional boxer), but feels he has had enough rest.
"I think he will be red-hot on Saturday," said Smith.
The All Blacks will announce their team for the clash at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Thursday.
WIN your very own personalised Bok jersey
Click to BUY The Springboks and the Holy Grail book
New Zealand's assistant coach, Wayne Smith, told Die Burger newspaper that Williams will start a game for the first time in the Tri-Nations.
Richard Kahui is expected to be Williams' partner in the midfield.
"Yes, I think the time is right for Sonny Bill to come into the starting line-up. He especially played well on last year's tour against England and Scotland.
"After that we again picked him in the starting team against Wales, because we told the players beforehand that they will be rewarded if they play the best in their positions," said Smith.
Smith said that Williams was tired at the start of the Tri-Nations due to his boxing commitments (Williams is also a professional boxer), but feels he has had enough rest.
"I think he will be red-hot on Saturday," said Smith.
The All Blacks will announce their team for the clash at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Thursday.
