Rugby: Memorable debut for Sonny Bill

Sonny Bill Williams scored a try in Toulon's upset win over Clermont today. Photo / Getty Images

PARIS - Sonny Bill Williams scored on his French premiership debut as Toulon opened their Top 14 rugby championship with a 22-16 win over Clermont today.

The New Zealand international, who controversially walked out of the Bulldogs NRL club last month, crossed for one of Toulon's three tries as the ambitious club - back in the top flight for the first time in two years - beat last season's Top 14 runners-up.

Former NSW Waratahs coach Ewen McKenzie also made a memorable introduction to French rugby with Stade Francais taking the early lead on the ladder after a comfortable 31-9 defeat of Dax.

Italian Sergio Parisse scored two tries as the Parisians' lopsided win ensured the best possible start for the former Wallaby.

Montauban also claimed a handsome win over newly promoted Mont-de-Marsan 37-19.

But champions Toulouse opened their title defence with a surprise 16-11 loss at Montpellier.

Toulouse were unable to capitalise on their first half domination with Didier Nourault's Montpellier coming out after the break to take and hold on to the lead.

- AFP