Mundine: Sonny is a league man

Sonny Bill Williams on the charge for the Roosters. Picture: Philip Hillyard Source: Philip Hillyard / The Daily Telegraph

Sonny Bill Williams should stay in rugby league for the rest of his glittering career because "that's where his heart lies".

That is the opinion of close mate, boxing champion and former Dragons star Anthony Mundine after The Daily Telegraph yesterday exclusively revealed Williams' plan to remain in rugby league for 2014.

Williams hasn't signed a contract yet but sources told The Daily Telegraph he would stay with the Sydney Roosters next year before a possible return to rugby union in time for the 2015 World Cup.

The Roosters deal would be worth $1 million.

"For me, rugby league is all I have known since I was three or four years old," Mundine told The Daily Telegraph yesterday. "Even though I don't mind the other codes, league has always been in my heart and I think that's also where Sonny's heart lies.

"He definitely liked his stint in rugby union (in New Zealand, Japan and France) but he is a league boy and the game comes naturally to him.

"I would love to see him stay in rugby league. That would be the best scenario for the rugby league community.

"Rugby league has to keep its stars. You need the stars, characters and heroes. Sonny is a role-model and I'm proud of him."

Williams has been a revelation this year. His return to rugby league can only be described as stunning.

"Sonny has speed, height, power and ball skills," Mundine said.

"It would be great for rugby league if he stayed. But it is a business and he has to look after himself. He might want to start a family soon."

Online bookmaker sportsbet.com.au has started paying-out on bets placed that Williams plays NRL next year. Yesterday they installed rugby league as a $1.55 favourite to be Williams' code in 2014.

"We reckon Sonny will stay," sportsbet.com.au's Ben Hawes said. "Our track record on early payouts is rock solid. We paid out on the Eels getting the wooden spoon after just four rounds last year."

Williams took to Twitter yesterday to say no deal had yet been reached at Bondi.

The Daily Telegraph checked with our sources again and the story is spot-on.

Williams twittered: "I have not signed or committed to anything for next year and won't be doing so until I feel the time is right. My sole focus right now is playing the best I can for the boys and the club."

Williams wants to continue his boxing and the Roosters won't object.

He defeated South African journeyman Francois Botha on points in a controversial WBA international heavyweight fight in February just before joining the Roosters for pre-season training.

NRL chief executive Dave Smith said it was vital to retain star players like Williams.

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