Now Reading: 44-year-old Ma’a Nonu to face All Blacks for Sharks next week
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44-year-old Ma’a Nonu to face All Blacks for Sharks next week
New Zealand will face former All Black Ma'a Nonu when he plays for the Sharks against them next Tuesday in Durban. Nonu, 44, joined the Sharks on a short-term contract this week…
The Story in Brief
New Zealand will face former All Black Ma'a Nonu when he plays for the Sharks against them next Tuesday in Durban. Nonu, 44, joined the Sharks on a short-term contract this week and was named on the bench for the match at Kings Park. He retired from internationals in 2015 after 103 tests and two Rugby World Cup wins, but continues playing.
Sharks coach JP Pietersen said Nonu will work with coaches on player development. All Blacks lock Patrick Tuipulotu, who played with Nonu, called him a true professional. The Sharks have named a young backline behind an experienced pack, with eight players under 23.
The Indian Opinion
Some call Nonu's return a publicity stunt, but his 103-test career and mentor role at the Sharks show lasting value. Others exaggerate his 'age-defying' tale, ignoring that he last played Test rugby a decade ago. The real test: can a 44-year-old centre, even one this professional, keep pace with fitter, younger opponents? Watch his first tackle to judge.
Source: hindustantimes.com
This story was synthesised by AI from the source linked above.
