New Zealand recall Ngani Laumape as cover for Sonny Bill Williams

New Zealand have recalled Ngani Laumape as a cover for injured Sonny Bill Williams in the squad ahead of upcoming clash against Ireland at Aviva Stadium on Saturday.

Williams sustained an AC joint injury in the 31st minute during the game against England at Twickenham last Saturday which the All Blacks went on to win 15-16.

New Zealand head coach Steve Hansen confirmed that Williams is definite to miss the game against Ireland but is expecting the 33-year-old to be fit for the final game against Italy.

“There’s a pretty good chance he’ll be right for Italy so he’ll stay but Ngani is coming over to make sure if we lose someone this week we’ve got someone,” said Hansen.

Meanwhile, Laumape has been in prolific form as he recently scored a hat-trick in New Zealand's 31-69 win over Japan in Tokyo earlier this month.

Williams had a struggling year with fitness and has managed to feature in just five Tests since June.