Sonny Bill Williams takes field

Sonny Bill Williams. Photo / Doug Sherring

About 4pm our time today, Japan will get its first view of rugby superstar Sonny Bill Williams as he takes the field.

Williams' debut for the Panasonic Wild Knights is in Sapporo against NTT Communications Shining Arcs.

Wild Knights coach Norifumi Nakajima opted to give Williams - who is set to receive $1.2 million for his 12-week stint in Japan - last week off to adjust after coming off All Black duties.

Team manager Seigo Ikeda said Sonny Bill was attracting plenty of attention, with fans wanting autographs, photos or to shake his hand.