Ma'a Nonu joins Sharks bench ahead of All Blacks clash next week
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 7, 2026, 4:14 PM
Last updated Aug 7, 2026
Ma'a Nonu has joined the Sharks on a short-term contract for mentorship as they prepare to face the All Blacks next Tuesday in their South Africa rugby tour. Nonu, at 44 years old, has not officially retired and brings extensive experience after playing for Toulon in France. He was named among the reserves for the match, aiming to provide leadership to a young Sharks side that features several Junior Boks. Sharks coach JP Pietersen emphasized the value Nonu brings in setting standards for excellence within the team.
- •Nonu, 44, joins Sharks primarily for mentor role.
- •Sharks face All Blacks next Tuesday at Kings Park.
- •Nonu retired from international rugby in 2015.
- •Sharks' lineup includes several players under 23.
- •Pietersen commends Nonu's influence on player development.
- 4:14 PMYahoo Sports — All Blacks set for stirring reunion as 44-year-old Ma'a Nonu joins Sharks bench
"New Zealand will face one of its all-time greats in Ma'a Nonu when it plays the Sharks next week in the second match of its South Africa rugby tour. Nonu joined the Sharks only on Tuesday on a short-term contract. The Sharks hired Nonu mainly in a mentor and leadership capacity to work with the coaches on player development.
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