Rugby: Williams set to re-sign with NZRU

All Black lock Ali Williams says he is hoping to stay in New Zealand until after the 2011 World Cup. Photo / Dean Purcell

Another leading All Black is set to commit to New Zealand rugby until after the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

Lock Ali Williams has been in extensive contract negotiations with the New Zealand Rugby Union, with talk of a Dan Carter-type sabbatical one of the carrots being dangled in front of him.

Williams says a resolution is imminent. He says he is in final negotiations and wants to clear it up quickly and sign a deal to stay here until the end of 2012.

Meanwhile, the injured Williams is expecting to be back on deck with the Blues soon as they push for a spot in the Super 14 playoffs. He says he has tendonitis in his Achilles and a few tears down the side of it, but he should return to the field in two to four weeks.

The Blues have the bye this week.

- NEWSTALK ZB