Although this was Williams' third World Cup, he lost his place as a regular starter to Chiefs midfielder Anton Lienert-Brown, being used as a replacement for a pool stage test against eventual Champions, South Africa, as well as two of the playoff matches, against Ireland and England. After New Zealand lost to England 7-19, Williams made a start in his final test for New Zealand in the Bronze Final, a 40-17 win over Wales, which saw the All Blacks claim third place. Williams was one of five players to finish his international career for New Zealand that day, with Matt Todd, Ben Smith, Ryan Crotty and Captain, Kieran Read, all retiring that day, alongside Williams.