Share

Lienert-Brown relishing Sonny Bill showdown

Cape Town - Chiefs centre Anton Lienert-Brown is relishing the prospect of going head-to-head with Sonny Bill Williams in Auckland on Friday.

Lienert-Brown, who made his Test debut last year, was Williams' understudy during the more famous All Blacks' time with the Chiefs two years ago.

But both players will now be vying for a place in the world champions' squad for next month's series against the British and Irish Lions although Lienert-Brown is focusing solely on measuring himself against his former mentor.

"Sonny's someone I look up to and he's a class player," the 22-year-old told NZ Newswire.

"I learnt an immense amount off him not just on the field but off the field as well so I'm looking forward to that challenge this week."

Lienert-Brown played in nine Tests after he was called up to the All Black squad as a replacement for Williams, who injured himself while representing the All Blacks Sevens side at the Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.

He impressed at Test level in 2016 but admitted that things have been quieter for the Chiefs this year although he has delivered several solid performances for the two-time Super Rugby champions.

Injuries to team-mates means he has played with five midfield partners this year but despite that, he is focused on improving his game.

"I've been building and working hard all season to get better and slowly the confidence is starting to come back," added Lienert-Brown.

"It's not about having a partnership necessarily but doing my job well for the team."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1273 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2249 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE