# All Blacks coach knew Nonu would perform solo Haka 2026-08-12T23:15:07+00:00 | World & Diplomacy | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet New Zealand thrashed the Sharks 54-0 in Durban, but the match was marked by a solo Haka from 44-year-old Sharks substitute Ma'a Nonu. All Blacks coach Dave Rennie said he knew the Haka was coming because Nonu had asked permission from defence coach Tana Umaga the night before. Nonu, a double Rugby World Cup winner, joined the Sharks as a mentor last month and was included on the bench due to Springbok call-ups and injuries. Rennie praised his team's second-half performance after a tight first half, noting they improved discipline and kicking. Jordie Barrett was named man of the match after scoring a try and setting up others with cross-field kicks. The All Blacks have now won two straight matches on their South African tour. ## Coverage - hindustantimes.com Tags: All Blacks, Haka, Ma'a Nonu, New Zealand rugby, rugby, South Africa tour Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/all-blacks-coach-knew-nonu-would-perform-solo-haka/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/all-blacks-coach-knew-nonu-would-perform-solo-haka/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.