All Blacks relishing Ma’a Nonu ‘spectacle’ as reason for Sharks veteran’s longevity revealed
Patrick Tuipulotu on All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu playing for the Sharks.
All Blacks second-row Patrick Tuipulotu admits he was surprised to see the Sharks name New Zealand legend Ma’a Nonu in their squad for Tuesday’s fixture.
The 44-year-old World Cup winner was a shock signing for the Durban side but the even bigger surprise came when they unveiled their 23 to take on the All Blacks.
It will no doubt be a special occasion for Nonu as he faces the team he won two global titles with and all eyes will be on the bench for when he makes his appearance.
True professional
Speaking ahead of the game at Kings Park, which is the All Blacks‘ second of their Greatest Rivalry tour, Tuipulotu revealed that he was taken aback by the selection.
“I did not expect him to be named. I’m certainly looking forward to it. A lot of the boys know him and are close to him,” the lock forward told reporters on Saturday.
“It’s no secret how long his playing career has been. His career has been this long because he is a true professional of the game and he’s been blessed to keep playing.
“I think it will be quite a spectacle to see him against us, and we will certainly look forward to that.
“I might catch up with him after the match and give him a jab or two,” he said with a smile.
Tuipulotu was named All Blacks skipper for the 38-21 win over the Stormers on Friday but takes a well-earned rest for the match against an under-strength Sharks side.
Indeed, JP Pietersen’s 23 is minus the likes of Thomas du Toit, Eben Etzebeth, Ethan Hooker, Andre Esterhuizen and Edwill van der Merwe while Ox Nche is injured.
Strong All Blacks team
In contrast to the hosts’ absences, the All Blacks are bolstered by several of their first team stars for this Greatest Rivalry meeting, with Luke Jacobson named captain.
He is joined in a solid back-row by Wallace Sititi and Tupou Vaa’i while Sam Darry, Josh Lord, Fletcher Newell, Asafo Aumua and Ethan de Groot complete the pack.
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The backline is where the real stardust is found though as Kyle Preston links up with Ruben Love in the half-backs, while Jordie Barrett and Quinn Tupaea continue an ever-blossoming centre partnership. Caleb Clarke and Fehi Fineanganofo are lethal threats out wide and Damian McKenzie will once again start at full-back at Kings Park.
