Ma’a Nonu joins Sharks Rugby Club as mentor and potential player

All Blacks legend Ma’a Nonu, a 44‑year‑old two‑time World Cup winner with 103 test caps, was presented with a Sharks jersey bearing No 12 on 4 August 2026. The Durban‑based club signed him to a high‑performance mentorship role, working alongside head coach JP Pietersen to develop young backs such as Jurenzo Julius, who handed him the shirt.

Nonu’s contract also leaves him available to play, and the Sharks hinted he could feature when they host New Zealand on 11 August as part of the “Greatest Rivalry” series. The club unveiled a new logo and a Reebok technical apparel partnership at the same event.

The move marks Nonu’s first involvement with a South African franchise after a season with Toulon, and it could see the former All Blacks centre take the field against his native national team.