Complacency is our enemy, says SBW

Sonny Bill Williams has been in outstanding form for the Chiefs in this year's Super Rugby campaign.

Chiefs and All Blacks star Sonny Bill Williams spoke to Bay of Plenty Times sports writer Peter White ahead of tomorrow night's clash with the Force in Hamilton.

Q: How important, psychologically, was that 26-9 win over the Crusaders in Christchurch on Friday?

A: A lot of people were saying that the Crusaders were in a desperate place but, as a team, we were pretty desperate as well. So we needed to play well and gain some momentum, so it was a pretty significant game in our season, but you can't play to that standard one week and drop off the next because any team can beat you in this competition, as we have found out.

Q: How do you assess how well you have played since returning from rugby league?

A: I just try to tick all the boxes each week and do what's needed from a team's point of view. I am happy with how I am going but you never want to be complacent or anything like that. There are always things you need to improve on.

Q: I have noticed you are far more selective about when you try to offload the ball in contact. Has that been a conscious decision on your part?

A: Yes, definitely. When I first came back to New Zealand every run I did I would try to offload out the back but now I am a bit more selective. I try to make sure whoever is getting the offload is in a better position than myself. That probably comes from understanding the game more.

Q: What is it that makes the Chiefs such a special team to play for under coach Dave Rennie?

A: I think it is just the work ethic, the honest opinions everyone has, the honesty within the group - I think that probably sums it up.

Q: Is playing sevens at the Rio Olympics next year still a major goal?

A: I have already stated that I want to. But, having said that, a lot of things have to come to fruition before that happens. We will just have to see how it unfolds.

Q: The news that Aaron Cruden needs a knee reconstruction and will be out for six months is a big blow to the Chiefs. Is there faith you can replace him?

A: Whoever is going to step up and take his role has our backing as we all have faith he will be able to do it. [Cruden] is one of the major reasons the Chiefs have gone so well and have won two championships in the last three years.