NRL: SBW leaves Roosters with no regrets

Sonny Bill Williams says he leaves the NRL with no regrets but won't rule out a possible return to the Sydney Roosters. Photo / AP

Sonny Bill Williams says he leaves the NRL with no regrets but won't rule out a possible return to the Sydney Roosters before his career is through.

The 29-year-old's two-year stint back in rugby league ended last night in the Roosters' preliminary final loss to South Sydney, with Williams returning to New Zealand rugby union for another two years.

Williams denied the early exit meant there was unfinished business for him in the 13-man game, but admits he's open to a third stint in the NRL once his next deal comes to an end.

But the Roosters is the only club he'd play for.

"You never know, the way things pan out," said Williams, who praised Roosters chairman Nick Politis for bringing him back to league when it was thought he was lost to the game forever following his acrimonious departure from Canterbury in 2008.

"I'm 29 now and not a spring chicken. I've got two years in New Zealand and I'm looking forward to that. A new challenge and a new chapter in my life.

"I'm going to have a child too which is the biggest thing going on right now.

"I wouldn't say (there's unfinished business). I tend to get down on myself a lot because I set high standards.

"But looking back on the last two years I'm very proud of the way I've conducted myself and proud to say I've played alongside some great players.

"We've won a premiership.

"If you would have told me before I came back that you'd be one game away from the grand final and having already won a premiership, you'd take that hands down.

"I won't be looking back on it in a bad light."

Williams admits he hurt his shoulder when tipped in a tackle by South Sydney hooker Issac Luke in the first half of Friday night's 32-22 loss to the Rabbitohs.

Luke risks missing the grand final after being put on report for the dangerous throw, however Williams hopes his former New Zealand teammate escapes suspension.

Williams also copped a high shot late in the match, but got to his feet before the video referees could check the contact.

The Roosters back rower says he prides himself on his toughness and hates seeing NRL players staging for penalties.

"I was thinking about staying down but I just couldn't do it. When I watch TV I cringe when I see the boys stay down," said Williams.

"I hope (Luke) gets off. I was a little bit sore when I first did it, but it was sweet. I wish Souths all the best next week."

-AAP