Israel Folau and Sonny Bill Williams could clash in first round of 2014 Super Rugby

A ROUND one showdown between Israel Folau and Sonny Bill Williams is in the works to kick off next year's Super Rugby season.

Israel Folau and Sonny Bill Williams

A ROUND one showdown between Israel Folau and Sonny Bill Williams is in the works to kick off next year's Super Rugby season should the pair be signed to the game.

In what would be one of the biggest matches in the competition's history, Folau's Waratahs would take on Williams' Chiefs in Hamilton to begin the 2014 season.

Waratahs and ARU officials remain confident Folau will re-sign following the British and Irish Lions series, while there have been fresh revelations that the Chiefs have left vacant a midfield spot in their 2014 squad for Williams' possible return.

Williams, currently playing in the NRL with Sydney Roosters, was initially believed to have signed a two-year deal, but Chiefs coach Dave Rennie said this week he is leaving a spot open so the former All Black can return a year early.

SANZAR boss Greg Peters told The Sunday Telegraph the potential showdown between the cross-code superstars would have huge appeal as a season-setter."It would be an exciting prospect if Sonny Bill returns to rugby and Israel Folau stays in the game. It would be a match-up that we would consider placing in the priority part of our season," Peters said."The broadcasters do like a strong start to the season."

SANZAR is putting together various draft proposals for next year's draw and could have it finalised within six weeks. Traditionally, the first round features grudge matches, with NSW normally playing against interstate rivals Queensland.

But the Reds have developed a more feisty rivalry with the Brumbies in recent seasons, while the Chiefs do not have an automatic rivalry in their local derbies, with the Crusaders and Blues sharing much history, while the Hurricanes and Highlanders have pillaged each other's rosters in recent years.It would leave the draw open for NSW to face the Chiefs, and with both Folau and Williams' NRL background the game would be a ratings hit.

Williams roomed with the Chiefs players when they visited Sydney for their Round 10 clash with the Tahs in April, and Rennie said Sonny Bill enjoyed the company of his former teammates.

With Folau setting the international stage alight after just 16 competitive games of rugby, questions are being asked as to who is the most devastating force of the two league-bred talents.

Williams said this year of Folau: "I am one of Izzy's biggest fans, he's got more skills than I ever had. He is one of those guys that has that thing you can't really coach."

Williams himself has been in superb form since returning to the NRL with the Roosters, but has indicated his tenure won't be for good as he is determined to help the All Blacks defend their World Cup crown in 2015.