‘That’s why they are scary’ – Sonny Bill Williams picks his Rugby World Cup favourites
Former All Blacks centre Sonny Bill Williams has revealed that Rugby World Cup hosts France are his favourites to claim the title.
The tournament begins in only a few days with a truly blockbuster Test as France host the All Blacks in what could be a decider for Pool A.
‘Chickens coming home to roost’
Williams who won the World Cup in 2011 and 2015 with the All Blacks believes that the time has come for France, who have made three finals but never won the title.
“When I see the French, the chickens are coming home to roost,” the former centre told AFP.
“The last few Under-20 World Cups they’ve won and the young fearless players that are coming through, France represent that.
“They don’t have the fear factor of the All Blacks, that’s why they’re scary, that’s why for me they’re one of the favourites.”
The greats of 2015
The centre famed for his outstanding offloading ability played a big role in the 2015 triumph as a cog in a very powerful machine, littered with greats of the game like Richie McCaw and Dan Carter amongst others.
“I was lucky, I was very fortunate to be in a great side,” Williams said.
“I always loved the fact that I was in a group, in the sheds and I understood there were some great players in the team and all I had to do was my job.
“Some good memories, but everyone has their time.”
Dupont is “special”
The former dual-code man reserved some special praise for France’s leader and talisman Antoine Dupont. Williams believes the scrum-half’s upbringing is key to his performance levels and likens that aspect to UFC superstar Khabib Nurmagomedov.
“He’s a special player,” Williams said.
“He’s had that Khabib upbringing, natural physical ability from being in fresh air.
“I like his style, very physical.
“He’s a representation of this young scary French player coming through the French system, not scared.”
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