All Blacks refute SBW injury rumours

The All Blacks have denied speculation that star inside centre Sonny Bill Williams may be ruled out of the World Cup due to an injury.

Williams has been suffering from a calf injury in the build-up to the showpiece event in Japan and has struggled with multiple injuries since the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

The rumours intensified when former World Cup commentator Hamish McKay cited a 'trustworthy' source that Williams' withdrawal was imminent and suggested that Williams would soon be heading home, with Ngani Laumape expected to replace him.

"I trust my source absolutely. Watch this space," McKay told Newstalk ZB.

However, according to the New Zealand Herald, the All Blacks told media in Japan that Williams is not returning home, without elaborating much on the player's injury status.

Hurricanes midfielder Ngani Laumape is the player on standby in case Williams is withdrawn. He boasts 13 Tests since making his debut in 2017.