Sharks confirm signing of All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu on short-term deal

By SABC Sport
25th July 2026

All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu has signed a short-term deal to join the Sharks in a mentorship and leadership capacity, the Durban-based side has confirmed.

In a statement released by the Sharks, the 44-year-old double World Cup winner explained that he wants to give back to the game that has given him so much over his professional career, which spans over 24 years and has seen him represent seven different clubs.

The Sharks will be the eighth different professional team that Nonu has represented in his career after playing for Wellington, the Hurricanes, Black Rams Tokyo, Blues, Highlanders, RC Toulon, and San Diego Legion.

He added that the chance to work with head coach JP Pietersen, whom he squared off against during his All Blacks and Super Rugby career, and the Sharks' emerging talent, made this an easy decision.

Nonu will arrive in Durban boasting an incredible CV that includes 103 caps for the All Blacks, two Rugby World Cup titles, 174 Super Rugby caps, and over 400 first-class appearances.

Nonu said: "The Sharks are one of the world's most iconic rugby clubs, and Durban has always been a special place for me to travel to.

"One of my earliest away matches in Super Rugby was played here, and I've carried fond memories of this city and its passionate rugby fans ever since.

"I have immense respect for JP. We competed against each other for many years, and I'm looking forward to working with him and the team.

"This is a great opportunity to give back to the game. Working alongside the future stars of our sport is exciting, and I'm looking forward to doing everything I can to help the club during my time there."

Sharks CEO Shaun Bryans said: "Opportunities for someone of Ma'a's calibre to spend time in our environment don't come around often.

"While his achievements on field are exceptional, it is his professionalism, leadership and understanding of what it takes to consistently perform at the highest level, that makes this such an exciting opportunity for our club."

Head coach Pietersen added: "The best players don't just leave memories, they leave standards. That's what Ma'a brings. Every conversation, every training session and every interaction is an opportunity for our players to learn what excellence looks like."