Ma’a Nonu explains emotion behind unforgettable solo haka against All Blacks

Ma’a Nonu described performing a solo haka in response to the All Blacks as an honour and a gesture of respect towards the New Zealand team he represented more than 100 times.

The former All Blacks centre stepped forward at Kings Park after New Zealand had completed their traditional haka before the second match of their Greatest Rivalry Tour of South Africa.

Nonu’s response became the defining moment of an otherwise one-sided evening, with the Sharks suffering a 54-0 defeat in Durban. Only 14,700 spectators witnessed the emotional exchange on a wet night.

The teams had remained near the centre of the field after New Zealand’s haka when Nonu moved forward to perform his own. His powerful solo response left the crowd buzzing and quickly became one of the most memorable images of the match.

Sharks coach JP Pietersen said the haka was a particularly meaningful moment, while revealing that Nonu had been nervous about delivering it alone.

“He said doing the haka back is a sign of respect to the All Blacks,” Pietersen told reporters.

“And it’s beautiful that he did the haka.

“He was quite nervous to do the haka by himself. That’s what he was more worried about.

“I got goosebumps when I saw it,” Pietersen added.

‘It was the right thing to do’

Speaking to Sky Sports New Zealand after the match, Nonu said playing against the All Blacks had been a privilege, despite now representing the Sharks.

The 43-year-old, who earned more than 100 caps for New Zealand, said it had been especially significant to see his Sharks team-mates face the side for the first time.

“But it was great to see the boys play against them for the first time. It was such a privilege and an honour,” reflected Nonu.

“And to do the haka as well, to show my respect on behalf of my family to the boys and to the team I love and I always love.”

Nonu also explained that he had sought permission before responding to New Zealand’s challenge, saying he wanted the gesture to represent his family and the Sharks.

“I asked for permission [from New Zealand] in terms of doing it out of respect on behalf of our team, you know, on behalf of myself and my family. And I thought it was the right thing to do to answer the boys and the All Blacks.”

Although the Sharks were unable to compete with New Zealand on the scoreboard, Nonu’s haka is expected to remain one of the enduring memories of the tour and of rugby’s long-running rivalry between the two countries.

The All Blacks now turn their attention to the Bulls, who they face in Pretoria on Saturday.

Kick-off is at 19:00.