Williams' crusade comes to an end
September 19 2008
Ali Williams has left Tasman and the Crusaders in favour of re-joining the Auckland Rugby Union, and Blues, on a two-year contract.
The All Black second row, who began his career at Auckland, had moved to Tasman after a public fall-out with then Blues coach David Nucifora.
However Nucifora is no longer at the Blues, instead Pat Lam is in charge - a coach Williams is said to be a big fan of. Williams is now looking forward to returning to his town of birth as well as working alongside Lam.
"It is an excellent opportunity for me to be back with the Blues and work under Pat Lam and Shane Howarth at Super 14 level and I'm really excited about it," Williams said on his website, www.aliwilliams.com
"The move back to Auckland also means I can be closer to my family and friends.
"I have really enjoyed my time with the Crusaders over the last year. I would like to thank the Crusaders staff and players for making my time with the team an enjoyable experience. I will look back on my time there with fond memories."
Those memories will include a Super Rugby winner's medal, after the Crusaders wrapped up the 2008 tournament with a final victory over the Waratahs.
Lam, who will take charge of his first Super Rugby campaign next season, is delighted to have Williams back in the fold. Having used Williams briefly during Auckland's unbeaten 2007 Air New Zealand Cup and Ranfurly Shield campaign he is well aware of the qualities Williams has.
"Ali's a quality player as shown by his performance for the All Blacks this year," Lam said.
"We've worked together for many years and I'm thrilled he'll be with Auckland Rugby and the Blues next season."
Williams is on a two-week leave after the All Blacks' Tri Nations and Bledisloe Cup successes and will not play any part in the rest of the Air New Zealand Cup.