WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) All Blacks coach Steve Hansen was again forced to address the issue of intent to injure after center Sonny Bill Williams was sent off for a reckless shoulder charge during Saturday’s defeat by the British and Irish Lions.
Williams was shown a red card in the 25th minute of the second test for a no-arms tackle which made contact with the head of Anthony Watson. The Lions winger left the field for a head injury assessment but was able to return and see out the match. Williams became the first All Black in 50 years – since Colin Meads against Scotland in 1967 – to be sent off in a rugby test.