Rugby: Deans rates SBW-Carter combo

Sonny Bill Williams of the Crusaders celebrates scoring a try with team mate Dan Carter. Photo / Getty Images

Wallabies coach Robbie Deans says Sonny Bill Williams' blossoming partnership with Crusaders' teammate Dan Carter could be the factor that lands the former rugby league star a starting spot in the All Blacks World Cup side later this year.

Williams made his test rugby debut for New Zealand late last year, before even playing a Super Rugby fixture.

The former Bulldogs NRL star has yet to establish himself as a regular All Blacks starter, Deans said playing regularly alongside Test five-eighth Carter was giving Williams the best possible opportunity to press his claim.

"The fact that they have got a good combination, not only in terms of his (Williams) acceleration within the game as an individual but from a selection perspective, it could be a tipping point," Deans said on Friday.

"He (Williams) has done very well as a player and he's also got the benefit of that combination."

Williams, who looms as a threat to Queensland in Sunday's blockbuster at Suncorp Stadium, has already impressed against other Australian teams, including the Brumbies and Waratahs.

Deans said he had watched all of Williams' Super Rugby performances so far and wouldn't rule out talking to rugby league coaches about the best way to stop the mobile big man, who has opened up numerous defences with his famed offloading skills.

"There's no doubt given the right platform he will take some containing," Deans said of Williams.

- AAP