Rugby: Sonny Bill turns it on

Sonny Bill Williams in action. Photo / Herald on Sunday

The women thought he was great, and so did former All Black hardman Richard Loe.

Sonny Bill Williams showed his star power in his debut New Zealand rugby match in Christchurch yesterday, turning out for Belfast in a club game in front of thousands of people.

He scored a try and signed autographs after the game.

His presence boosted the number of women at Sheldon Park. "He was the only reason I came along," said Victoria Kral, 21. "He's pretty good looking."

"We've had a good view when there are gaps in the crowd," said Vania Pirini. "I feel sorry for Lincoln. They've got to tackle him in front of thousands of people."

Karen Murphy, who said she was "over 50", was there to admire Williams. "He passes the grade. If I was 40 years younger I'd be hot to trot chasing him. I never ever come along [to rugby]. It's for a bit of a perve, mainly."

Zion Smith, 10, was delighted Williams signed his ball and thought he would see him in the All Blacks. "He's huge."

Benji Gray, 12, also thought Williams would make the side. "Because he's big and he has played loads of league and has experience as well."

Williams lasted only 60 minutes before departing with a minor hamstring strain. Belfast beat Lincoln University 22-7.

Herald on Sunday columnist Loe, a former All Black, was impressed with what he saw.

"While the standard of rugby wasn't up to much and Sonny Bill didn't get the ball all that much at second five-eighths, you can see why the All Black selectors are interested.

"He came into the breakdown, grabbed the ball, swatted off two or three forwards as if they were sandflies and made a run downfield.

"He is big, he is strong, he is fast. You can see the athletic ability and you can see the strength."