Sonny Bill Williams not guaranteed to start Super League season
Toronto coach Brian McDermott says they are in no rush to play Sonny Bill Williams following his code switch from rugby union.
The 34-year-old has linked up with the Wolfpack on a two-year marquee contract, which is believed to be worth £5.4million.
Williams watched his new club beat Castleford 16-10 in Michael Shenton’s testimonial on Sunday – but he might not start the new campaign.
McDermott said: “Sonny Bill will be available for round one. Whether we play him or not, we’re just deciding on his fitness.
“That journey from rugby union is not to be sniffed at and we’re taking an approach he’s got to be good for the final third of the season.
“I know there’s an anticipation around him but we’re not going to rush him and run the risk of him pulling something.
“He’s been playing a specific role in a different sport for a number of years and that transition will take some time.”
Dual-code legend Williams will miss a couple of rounds early in the season as he heads back to his native New Zealand for the birth of his fourth child.
McDermott added: “He highlighted this when we recruited him, I think it’s due around round three.”
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