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Sonny Bill Williams hints at post-World Cup future

By Online Editors
New Zealand back Sonny Bill Williams. Photo / Getty Images

All Blacks midfielder Sonny Bill Williams has opened up about where his career may head after next year's Rugby World Cup.

It would be understandable for 33-year-old Williams to want to cap a stellar career at the conclusion of the showpiece tournament in Japan, but he insists he still has plenty more to give on the field.

The 51-test veteran told the Sydney Morning Herald that he still has a burning desire to continue playing rugby at the highest level, and is refusing to rule out another code switch.

"I've enjoyed the process so far," he said. "And I have to think about what I will do in the future. I am positioning myself in case that becomes an option. I am enjoying doing a bit of studying and keeping my brain going in a different way.

"The last couple of years have been tough with injury, but I still have the fire inside me. I still feel fresh.

Williams' injury woes have seen him appear in just five tests in 2018. He was also limited to just five appearances for the Blues during the Super Rugby season after missing time with a broken wrist along with knee and shoulder problems.

Williams joined the Blues in 2017 and has been recommitted to union since 2014, but said he would consider switching back to rugby league - where he first made his name - should offers arrive.

"I'm not sure if league is in my future at 33 [but] if there are offers, I will examine it with my family and go from there," Williams said.

Learn more about Japan, host of the 2019 Rugby World Cup, with our exclusive city guides: