New Zealand players to play for Barbarians

The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) has released the following players to take part in the UK Barbarians v South Africa match on Saturday 4 December at Twickenham:  Colin Bourke, Daniel Braid, Andy Ellis, Chris Jack, Keven Mealamu, Ma’a Nonu, Joe Rokocoko, Rodney So’oialo, Neemia Tialata, and Isaia Toeava.

The New Zealand players will join players from Australia, Ireland, and Italy for the one-off fixture.

Meanwhile, Blues and Auckland lock Ali Williams has also been released to play up to four matches for Nottingham Rugby in January, ahead of the 2011 Investec Super Rugby season.

Williams sought permission to play the off-shore club games as part of his rehabilitation from serious Achilles injuries which have kept him out of competitive rugby for nearly all of the past two years.

NZRU General Manager of Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen said Williams had instigated the proposal himself.

“Ali’s itching to get back on the field to build his fitness and confidence, and of course both the NZRU and the Blues are happy to support him getting some game time before he joins the Blues squad for their pre-season camp in late January,” he said.