Ma'a Nonu appointed mentor for South Africa's Sharks rugby club

Former All Blacks centre Ma’a Nonu, 44, has signed a short‑term high‑performance mentorship contract with the Sharks in Durban. The double Rugby World Cup winner will work alongside the coaching staff to accelerate the development of the franchise’s emerging players, under a programme aimed at strengthening the club’s high‑performance culture. Nonu’s appointment follows his recent spell with French side Toulon and a stint at Japan’s Black Rams, and reflects his long‑standing relationship with Sharks head coach JP Pietersen.

The move is expected to boost the Sharks’ on‑field tactics and off‑field commercial activity, with increased ticket demand, broadcast interest and merchandise sales anticipated as the legendary New Zealand player joins the United Rugby Championship side.