Williams receives Barbarians call-up

Wales star Shane Williams has been named in the Barbarians squad for next month’s London Olympic Centenary match against Australia at Wembley.

Williams, favourite to land the International Rugby Board’s prestigious player of the year award in 11 days’ time, joins a star-studded cast list.

South Africa’s Bryan Habana, together with All Blacks Joe Rokocoko and Rico Gear, are Williams’ fellow wings – among a 22-man group to be coached by 2007 World Cup winner Jake White.

Williams and rising French star Francois Trinh-Duc are the Baa-baas’ latest additions for the December 3 fixture.

Baa-baas committee member and former England prop Mike Burton said: “Assembling such a star-studded squad from several countries would not have been possible without the approval and co-operation of national unions and individual provinces and clubs.

“We are grateful for the support we continue to receive.

“Many people in many different capacities recognise the role of the Barbarians in such high-profile fixtures, and their encouragement is a huge boost to all of us who are involved.

“It promises to be a great occasion in every respect.”

Barbarians squad:

Backs: P Montgomery, B Habana, J Rokocoko, S Williams, R Gear, J de Villiers, O Smith, F Trinh-Duc, G Gregan, F du Preez.

Forwards: P Collazo, G Steenkamp, C Hayman, J Smit, M Regan, B Botha, S Borthwick, C Jack, N Koster, S Burger, J Collins, R McCaw.