League: Sonny Bill Williams faces Pepsi challenge

Kiwis sensation Sonny Bill Williams is fizzing about his return to the NRL.

The 19-year-old Bulldogs second-rower, who makes his much anticipated return from an ankle injury against South Sydney tomorrow night, has joined a host of Australian celebrities in becoming a public face of softdrink giant Pepsi.

His image will be plastered on more than 50 billboards and 5000 bus stops across the country as part of a A$3 million ($3.2 million) advertising campaign.

Williams follows former Pepsi ambassadors, footballer Harry Kewell, tennis player Mark Philippoussis and 2004 Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins.

"It's a bit hard to take in," Williams confessed. "I'm pretty shy and would just like my football to do the talking."