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SBW in the frame for third test after being rated 'no chance'
SBW is poised to make a shock return to the All Blacks for the third test against France, despite being considered ‘no chance’ to play in the series following minor knee surgery.
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If he can pass a fitness test at Tuesday’s training he will most likely lineup in the All Blacks midfield for the Dunedin test, to the dismay of his wife who had planned a holiday break.
“She was a little bit upset, really upset actually. My wife loves me,” Williams said.
“I was surprised – I thought I wouldn’t be playing, probably, for four to six weeks. And then it all happened quickly.
“I was in holiday-mode. I went and caught-up for a jigsaw which is a meeting with the coaching and medical staff, trainers and what not. I literally sat down and the doctor talked and said it (the surgery) was a success. Actually a lot better than expected.”
With the doctors blessing, Williams explained the call came down to the All Blacks coaches.
“The coach turned to the doctor and said ‘well, is he a chance of playing in the third test, or being available for selection?’ And the doc said ‘yeah, but he has to come into camp’.
“So he looked at me and said ‘you’re in camp’.”
Williams will join the side for this week’s preparation and if picked will play his first test match of the year following a disrupted year with the Blues where he spent eight weeks on the sidelines with a broken wrist. He might be short on match fitness but Williams is confident he can step up to the required level.
“Those types of things are what I am going to have to deal with if I do get selected.
“But what’s the worst that can happen? Probably last year’s Bledisloe is the worst thing that can happen after I dropped the first three balls. But I’m still here and still smiling and still keen to give it a go.
“I’m just keen to get out there and if I do and that’s starting or off the bench or whatever, I’m going to have a crack, bro.”
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