All Blacks coach Steve Hansen has credited star midfielder Sonny Bill Williams, as he prepares to play his 50th Test match when New Zealand face Australia in Tokyo this weekend.
Having controversially left rugby league in 2008, Williams has gone on to prove his worth in the 15-man code over two stints, winning two Rugby World Cups in the process.
Speaking to media in Tokyo this afternoon, Hansen praised Williams for his work in the black jersey.
"He came to us with not a lot of rugby background. He was a pretty driven athlete - he still is," Hansen began.
"He's come to know himself better, he's a lot more aware of who he is and what he can do and how he can do it.
"He understands the game a lot better.
"He's definitely matured into a very, very good rugby player."
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