WATCH: Springboks hopeful welcomes childhood hero Ma’a Nonu to the Sharks, 12 years on from first meeting
All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu with Sharks centre Jurenzo Julius.
Legendary All Blacks centre Ma’a Nonu has touched down in South Africa after signing a short-term deal with the Sharks.
While there is a possibility that the 44-year-old will run out for the Durbanites, he joined the United Rugby Championship franchise in a mentorship and leadership capacity.
Jurenzo Julius welcomes Ma’a Nonu to the Sharks
It is hoped that Nonu will be able to pass on knowledge and help the development of the future regulars at the Sharks, including rising star centre Jurenzo Julius, who was on hand to officially welcome the legend of the game.
In a video posted on the Sharks’ social media channels, captioned “POV: You get to welcome your rugby hero to your club”, the former Junior Boks star is seen presenting the double Rugby World Cup winner with a jersey.
“Welcome to the Sharks, great to have you here, it’s an honour and a privilege to welcome you to the family,” Julius says in the video, which then flashes to a picture of the pair all the way back in 2014.
POV: You get to welcome your rugby hero to your club 🥹🦈#SharksRugby #WelcomeMaa #RugbyTok pic.twitter.com/GcYiszKgXL
— The Sharks (@SharksRugby) August 4, 2026
Nonu to face the All Blacks?
It remains unclear whether Nonu could be up for selection when the Sharks tackle the All Blacks at the Kings Park Stadium on 11 August as part of the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour.
However, that is precisely what fans were baying for in the immediate aftermath of the announcement.
“Should play him against the All Blacks purely for the vibes,” Jordan Patu wrote, with journalist Jamie Wall writing: “If Nonu plays for the Sharks against the All Blacks they should roll out Tony Brown as well.”
While another fan was pleased to see the All Blacks’ arrival to assist the younger talents, specifically naming Julius.
“The Sharks signing Ma’a Nonu in a mentorship role is an incredible move for Jurenzo Julius. I cannot think of anyone better to work with him to fast-track his development. Definitely someone to keep an eye on in the URC now,” Alten du Plessis wrote.
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In the statement announcing his arrival, 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.
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“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.”
