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'A credit to himself and his family' – SBW praises teammate Rieko Ioane after breakthrough year

November 17, 2017

The young winger has emerged as one of the All Blacks' best in 2017. (Source: Other)

All Blacks star Sonny Bill Williams has heaped praise on young teammate Rieko Ioane, after a breakthrough year that's seen the winger pick up a nomination for World Rugby's Player of the Year award.

Ioane's rapid rise to stardom has been remarkable, only making his Test debut towards the end of 2016, before ousting Julian Savea from the All Blacks to claim the left wing spot as his own.

Speaking at today's media conference, Williams credited Ioane for a stellar year.

"It's a credit to himself and his family," he said.

"I've seen where he's come from and the hard work that he's put in, it's just awesome to see him shine out there."

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