Ma’a Nonu welcomed by Sharks before All Blacks clash

The Sharks have welcomed All Blacks legend Ma’a Nonu to Durban, just days before the New Zealand side face the South African franchise in their opening match of the Greatest Rivalry tour.

The 44-year-old met his new Sharks team-mates for the first time today after beginning his stint with the Durban-based side.

Nonu, who won 103 caps for the All Blacks between 2003 and 2015, is expected to work primarily in a mentorship role at the Sharks. His arrival gives the franchise the experience of one of New Zealand’s most decorated international players as it prepares for a high-profile meeting with the All Blacks.

He was formally welcomed to the Sharks by Jurenzo Julius, who presented him with a Sharks jersey.

Nonu’s first day with the franchise comes as the All Blacks prepare to begin their tour of South Africa. Their Greatest Rivalry campaign starts with a warm-up match against the Stormers at DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Friday night.

The tour will then move to Durban, where the All Blacks are scheduled to face the Sharks on Tuesday.

That match raises the possibility of Nonu appearing against his former international side, although there is no confirmation that he will be selected or involved in the fixture. His main responsibility with the Sharks is expected to be supporting and mentoring the squad.

Nonu represented the All Blacks 103 times during an international career that ran from 2003 to 2015. He was part of the New Zealand team during a significant period for the side and is now beginning a new chapter in South Africa with the Sharks.

For now, the focus is on his integration into the Durban franchise and his introduction to his new team-mates. Whether that role develops into an appearance against the All Blacks on Tuesday remains uncertain.

The answer will only become clear when the Sharks’ team is named and the match approaches.