Magners League Official Website : Williams moves to Leinster

Williams moves to Leinster

21 September 2005, 10:10 am

By Jonathan McConnell

Auckland lock Bryce Williams will leave New Zealand next week to play for Leinster.

Williams has signed for one season with Leinster and plans to return to New Zealand in July next year having been released early by the Auckland and New Zealand Rugby Union.

He has played 41 games for Auckland, making his debut in 2001 against Waikato.
Auckland Rugby Football Union chief executive David White said with the return of Auckland players from All Blacks duty, it was an excellent opportunity for Williams to gain some overseas experience. "His time with Leinster will definitely assist in his playing and professional development," White said.

Williams said he was looking forward to the opportunity to experience a new style of rugby and life in another country. "I'm still only 25 and have many years as a player ahead of me. I'm sure that my time with Leinster will be great for my rugby and hold me in good stead when I return to New Zealand," Williams said.