BY CURTIS WOODWARD

@woodward_curtis

Cross-code legend Sonny Bill Williams is ready to take on North America and he’s carrying rugby league to the new frontier on his own broad shoulders according to the man himself.

The $10 million Toronto Wolfpack recruit is preparing for his English Super League debut and a potential clash against Castleford in just over a week’s time.

Williams, 34, has a two-year deal with the Canadian franchise.

“I understand the responsibility is to use my profile, in whatever capacity I can to help grow (the game). Whether that is doing a bit more (media) or going out and speaking to young kids then I am all for it,” Williams told reporters in Manchester.

“But is it going to change the way I am or do I feel the need to change who I am? No. I just do me and do the best I can.

“This is such a blessed opportunity to do this on and off the field and if I can open a few more doors for young kids back in New Zealand, Australia and the islands to succeed and to be a part of this, how cool would that be?”

The big question now is… will the two-time NRL premiership-winner play against Castleford on February 2?

“I have been out of the game for five years,” he said.

If I do play I might be a little bit rusty but I am just banking on hard work, keeping it simple and trying to fit into how the team plays and then add my little bit of flavour to that.”

Toronto will play their second match of their Super League campaign against Salford on February 8th.

@woodward_curtis