"Serious infection" - All Blacks prop Tamaiti Williams ruled out for rest of the season

Williams is currently in hospital receiving specialist care after being diagnosed with discitis, an infection affecting one of the discs in his spine. He will remain under close medical supervision until his condition stabilises and he is able to return home.

While his health and recovery remain the priority, the nature of the condition means he will not be available for the remainder of the Super Rugby Pacific season.

His timeline for a return to rugby beyond this point is uncertain and will depend on ongoing medical advice.

Speaking from hospital, Williams provided an honest reflection on the past few weeks.

“I’ve had a sore back for a couple of weeks and had to come in for some scans and blood tests,” Williams says.

“They found an infection in my back called discitis, which means I’m going to be on antibiotics for a pretty long time. Unfortunately, my Crusade for 2026 is over.”

The setback is a difficult one for the prop, who had high hopes for the season both individually and as part of the team.

“I’m feeling gutted, but I’m also grateful that the news isn’t as bad as what it could be,” he says.

“Being in hospital, you see a lot, and it makes you appreciate that this place is here to save us. I’ve been told I’m going to make a 100 percent recovery, so I’m thankful for that.”

Williams also shared a message of support for his teammates and the wider Crusaders family:

“Even though my season’s done, I’ve got full faith in the boys that they’re going to get the job done. It’s an exciting year for us with the new stadium and a lot of big moments coming up. I’ll be backing the team all the way.”