(STUFF) - The Chiefs were heartened to receive a good luck message via video from Sonny Bill Williams before Saturday night’s unsuccessful Super Rugby qualifying final in Canberra, but they realise that was no substitute for having the cross-code superstar appearing in person next season.
Williams’ return to rugby at the end of his second NRL campaign with the Sydney Roosters presented a logical up side for the back-to-back champions in the aftermath of a frustrating 32-30 loss to the Brumbies.
It did not take long for Williams’ imminent return to New Zealand rugby to be raised at GIO Stadium and head coach Dave Rennie admitted it would be hugely beneficial to have the league second rower revert to second five-eighth in 2015.
“Sonny sent a message to the boys wishing them all the best and obviously we’re looking forward to getting him back.
“We’re a pretty small backline without him and Richard Kahui (who left for Japan at the end of last season).
“We brought Robbie Fruean in to perhaps do that job for us but it hasn’t eventuated,” he said, referring to the disruptive effect of the midfield back’s well documented heart issues.
The Chiefs generally relied on subtle rather than physically-imposing backs during a campaign that culminated with a record of eight wins, seven losses and two draws.
Aaron Cruden, Tim Nanai-Williams, Dwayne Sweeney, Bundee Aki and Gareth Anscombe are listed in the 82kg (Cruden) to 95kg (Sweeney) range so Williams’ dimensions (108kg, 1.94-metres) will be a welcome boost as the Chiefs rebuild.
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“To have Sonny back next year will give us a little bit of size. We’ll look forward to that, it allows you to play a different style of game,” said Rennie, who ramps up planning for the future after a host of personnel are farewelled.
Veteran flanker Tanerau Latimer heads the list of departing stalwarts while Anscombe, Aki, Mils Muliaina, Asaeli Tikoriotuma, Mo Schwalger and Kane Thompson are also contemplating the next phase of their careers.
Rennie said the focus once the squad disbands would be on the contribution of those individuals rather than collective disappointment of missing out of a record-equalling third straight crown.
“We’ll reflect more on that,” said Rennie, who could not disguise the fact that the Brumbies’ 22-3 lead following a dominant opening quarter ensured the Chiefs have only won two of their last 10 games in Australia.
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