Sonny Bill Williams has made himself available for
New Zealand's defence of the Rugby League World
Cup after initially telling selectors he had "other
commitments".
The 28-year-old was not in the Kiwis 24-man squad
which was named on Monday.
But coach Stephen Kearney has confirmed that he has
since expressed his desire to help them retain their
trophy.
"We are now exploring options around Sonny's
possible inclusion in the tournament," said Kearney.
"This would require ratification by the World Cup
organisers. Our thinking had always been that, if Sonny
was available, he would be part of the team."
The maximum number of players in a World Cup
squad is 24, so if Williams were to be included another
squad member would have to drop out.
The 28-year-old, who helped the Sydney Roosters win
Sunday's NRL Grand Final, has been tipped for a
return to rugby union.
Williams started his career in league, winning an NRL
title with the Canterbury Bulldogs before quitting to
play rugby union in 2008 and helping the All Blacks win
the 2011 World Cup.
Having returned to the 13-man code, he has yet to win
with the Kiwis, losing six and drawing one of his seven
Tests so far.
New Zealand will play the Cook Islands in a warm-up
match at Doncaster's Keepmoat Stadium on Sunday, 20
October.
They then face group games against Samoa (27
October), France (1 November) and Papua New Guinea
(8 November).
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