All Blacks star Sonny Bill Williams will miss this Friday's Blues-Highlanders clash to spend time in Christchurch in the wake of last week's shootings
Williams will be in Christchurch, helping to raise money for the victims and their families and to aid those affected by the tragedy.
A devout Muslim, Williams has been vocal in his support for the city of Christchurch and expressed his sadness at the attacks, which left 50 people dead and many more injured.
Williams has teamed up with charity Muslims Around the World (MATW), a not-for-profit that helps disadvantaged Muslims across the globe.
The week will count as one of his mandatory All Blacks stand down weeks, with all New Zealand Test players needing to rest for two games ahead of September's Rugby World Cup.
Thank you everyone for your kind hearts. We will be in Christchurch later in the week to show love and give donations to the Christchurch Masjids for the people effected in this tragedy. My heart is heavy 😢❤🤲🏽 please don’t stop showing your support.
— Sonny Bill Williams (@SonnyBWilliams) March 17, 2019
Williams posted an emotional video to twitter on Friday after the attacks, expressing his support for those impacted.
"(I'm) sending out my duas to everyone that's been killed today in Christchurch...you guys are all in paradise," he said.
"I'm just deeply, deeply saddened this would happen in New Zealand."
The impact of the news is still being felt across the country, with the Blues reportedly cancelling their Monday media session in the aftermath of the shootings.
Last Saturday's Highlanders-Crusaders match was cancelled because of the attacks but the Crusaders will return to Super Rugby action against the Waratahs on Saturday.
The Waratahs will hold a minute's silence before the game on Saturday to acknowledge the victims of the attack.
