Editorial: Sonny fits bill for Chiefs

It was like something out of an '80s horror movie - just when you thought the Sonny Bill Williams saga was over - it would raise its ugly head again and again.

But for Chiefs fans, finally it's a horror with a happy ending. After weeks of will he or won't he, SBW has signed on to play rugby in New Zealand for another year.

The deal means the utility back will play his Super Rugby with the Chiefs in 2012. Although the New Zealand Rugby Union hasn't made all the details available it is understood the contract will allow Williams to continue his boxing career alongside his rugby.

Williams' signing not only gives the Chiefs one of the most exciting backlines in next year's competition but one of the best-looking ones as well. It already has the women in our newsroom salivating at the thought of SBW, Richard Kahui and Aaron Cruden taking to the field side by side.

Its been a whirlwind four months for the 26-year-old. In July he signalled to the union he would turn down a lucrative deal from overseas clubs and rival codes to sign with the union.

He said he would be moving from the Crusaders to be closer to his mother in Auckland. This began a battle between the three northern franchises to secure his services.

For Williams, it seemed the world was at his feet - he was going head to head with Ma'a Nonu for the All Blacks' second-five, position, appeared to be winning the race, and could choose the Super Rugby team he wanted.

Then within weeks it all seemed to be falling apart. He had fallen out of favour with Graham Henry and co and appeared to be having second thoughts about staying in New Zealand.

From the outside he looked like the spoilt little brat not getting his way and so was throwing his toys out of the cot.

He was the only player from the 30-man World Cup squad not to have signed with the leading into union the tournament and was given until yesterday to make up his mind.

Williams managed to keep everyone on tenterhooks. Even the union, it seemed, was in the dark until the last possible minute. Media were having to keep an eye on his tweets to get any idea of not only his whereabouts but what he was up to as well.

Love him or loathe him, Williams creates interest. He draws youngsters, makes headlines and offers marketing opportunities that will be needed by the Chiefs.

He has made rugby lovers in the Bay of Plenty and Waikato jump with joy. Could it get any better? The Webb Ellis Trophy and now SBW as a Chief - could we possibly ask for any more? Well, a Super 15 title would be nice in the Chiefs' cabinet.