In an interesting twist of fate, New Zealand legend Ma’a Nonu made his Sharks debut against the All Blacks in Durban during the second match of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour on Tuesday.
Before the match started, there was a special moment as Nonu first faced the famed haka, and then responded with a solo effort of his own.
The 44-year-old came off the bench later in the match, but was unable to make much of an impact as the Sharks slumped to a 54-0 defeat.
YOU CAN SEE THE HAKA FROM MA’A NONU BELOW
It doesn't get more special than this in #RugbysGreatestRivalry 🥹🇳🇿
Ma'a Nonu responds to the All Blacks' Ka Mate with a one-man Haka.
📺 Stream on DStv: https://t.co/0P0NNhnwKw pic.twitter.com/pEqaHDNkHx— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) August 11, 2026
What is the plan going forward for the All Blacks legend
The two-time Rugby World Cup winner will spend the next few months in Durban as part of a high-performance mentorship programme designed to accelerate the development of the club’s next generation of players.
Nonu joins the Sharks primarily in a mentorship and leadership capacity, working alongside the coaching staff to support player development and strengthen the club’s high-performance culture.
Speaking about his time in Durban, Ma’a Nonu said the city, and the chance to work with coach JP Pietersen and the Sharks’ emerging talent, made this move an easy decision.
“The Sharks are one of the world’s most iconic rugby clubs and Durban has always been a special place for me to travel to. One of my earliest away matches in Super Rugby was played here, and I’ve carried fond memories of this city and its passionate rugby fans ever since.
“I have immense respect for JP. We competed against each other for many years, and I’m looking forward to working with him and the team.
“This is a great opportunity to give back to the game. Working alongside the future stars of our sport is exciting, and I’m looking forward to doing everything I can to help the club during my time there.”
