CAPE TOWN – He is a cult hero to many Capetonians who support the All Blacks, but on Wednesday, Sonny Bill Williams threw his support behind new Springbok captain Siya Kolisi.
Williams, who has been out of action with a knee injury recently, took to Twitter on Wednesday to express his feelings on the significance of Kolisi becoming the first black Bok skipper in last week’s thrilling 42-39 win over England at Ellis Park.
“Just want to acknowledge Siya Kolisi on his well deserved appointment as Captain- a wonderful moment for both rugby and South African history,” Williams said with a picture of him and Kolisi after the Bok-All Black Test at Newlands last year, which New Zealand won 25-24 in an epic encounter.
Just want to acknowledge Siya Kolisi on his well deserved appointment as Captain- a wonderful moment for both rugby and South African history 💯❤️ pic.twitter.com/uG0iCoxbXZ
— Sonny Bill Williams (@SonnyBWilliams) June 13, 2018
The 32-year-old inside centre is on the mend after minor knee surgery, and has in fact rejoined the All Black camp after sitting out the 52-11 first Test victory over France at Eden Park last weekend.
“What a blessing to be back a little earlier than anticipated that singing post operation must have done wonders on the knee... nah jokes too far - Really enjoying my role helping my AB brothers prepare this week. Lessss Goooooooo!!” Williams tweeted.
What a blessing to be back a little earlier than anticipated 🤲🏽 that singing post operation must have done wonders on the knee... nah jokes too far 🤣🤣🤣 - Really enjoying my role helping my AB brothers prepare this week. Lessss Goooooooo!! pic.twitter.com/laIaI7cFzj
— Sonny Bill Williams (@SonnyBWilliams) June 12, 2018
He will probably only be considered for selection for the final Test against France in Dunedin next week, despite taking part in training in Wellington on Tuesday ahead of the second match at the Westpac Stadium.
“We knew all along it was a pretty minor type of operation and, if all things go well, it was going to be a pretty quick turnaround,” All Black assistant coach Ian Foster told New Zealand website stuff.co.nz
This Friday I’ll be going *LIVE* on my instagram answering any questions you may have for me in regards to #Ramadhan🤲🏽 I’ll pick out some questions beforehand so ask away!Look forward to it- Blessings team ❤️
— Sonny Bill Williams (@SonnyBWilliams) June 13, 2018
“He’s not trained fully at the moment, but he’s doing enough to keep interested and it’s a good learning week for him. Again, if he can take the same steps in the next four or five days, then he becomes a prospect (to play).”
@ashfakmohamed