Kiwi chiefs under fire over Williams debacle

The New Zealand Rugby League was on Thursday accused of lacking integrity and pandering to the whims of Sonny Bill Williams after belatedly adding the superstar to the World Cup squad.

“Day of shame for NZ rugby league” roared the back page following Wednesday’s decision to dump rookie Tohu Harris from the Kiwis’ 24-man squad for Williams after the former All Black made himself available at the last minute.

Williams, who is weighing up whether to return to rugby union or stay with league, only changed his mind about going to the October 26-November 30 tournament after the squad had been announced after previously declaring he planned to go on holiday.

Former Kiwis coach Graham Lowe said the handling of the situation resembled “amateur hour”, while Harris declared himself “bitterly disappointed” at having the chance to represent his country taken away.

“I was very much looking forward to going, however I understand the decision that has been made and hope I get another opportunity to play for the Kiwis in the future,” he said.

Williams, who on Wednesday night added the Sydney Roosters’ player of the year award to the National Rugby League championship he won with the club on the weekend, apologised to Harris.