A SENIOR NSW official is involved in an audacious plan to create a 2013 Waratahs dream team revolving around Ewen McKenzie, Phil Blake and Sonny Bill Williams.

The Sun-Herald has been told a high-profile Waratahs official has, in conjunction with several rugby powerbrokers and at least two player managers, been working on bringing back McKenzie as head coach, installing Blake as his assistant and signing dual international Williams as their marquee player.

Waratahs wish list ... Sonny Bill Williams and Phil Blake.

This dramatic development is understood to be a major reason why there has been a delay in the announcement of the Waratahs coach to replace Michael Foley.

Those involved in trying to revive the ailing franchise, after a dreadful season where the Tahs slumped to 11th spot, realise they need big names to bring back the crowds. And they know the return of McKenzie, who took the Queensland Reds to a Super Rugby title last year after being dumped by NSW in 2008, will excite local supporters - especially as many firmly believe he has been the best Waratahs coach of the professional era. Also the sight of Williams in the Waratahs colours would lead to sell-out home games.