Sharks coach JP Pietersen backs Ma’a Nonu’s experience against the All Blacks, with limited centre options also influencing the decision to select the veteran on the bench, reports DEVIN HERMANUS.
Nonu, a two-time World Cup winner, joined the Sharks last week as a mentor for their outside backs and is set to make his debut off the wood against his former international team in the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry clash at Kings Park on Tuesday.
“Ma’a Nonu, his name says it all and what he has achieved,” Pietersen said. “He’s been good helping Jurenzo Julius, Lili Bester, Zekhethelo Siyaya with prepping yourself for a game, and helping with the skill set going into a game.”
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He stressed that the 44-year-old Nonu’s selection has not come at the expense of a younger midfielder, with Julius starting and Springboks André Esterhuizen and Ethan Hooker unavailable.
“What Ma’a brings is experience, and people will always say, ‘What about a younger player in the system?’ The younger player – Jurenzo – he’s the one playing and starting,” Pietersen said.
“It’s going to be an emotional game for Ma’a, because it’s the first time he plays against the All Blacks, so it’ll be awesome to see tomorrow.
“Out of the centres not playing, it’s André and Ethan who aren’t available for us, and we’ve only got Murray Koster and Jurenzo standing. That’s obviously the reason why Ma’a’s on the bench.”
ALSO: All Blacks excited for a crack at Nonu
Nonu has already made an impression at the Shark Tank, with Pietersen valuing the insight the 103-Test midfielder can provide before and during Tuesday’s clash.
“It’s great that he’s here with us, giving our young boys a feel for what the All Blacks may bring to them, and also showing them some good pictures of what they may expect tomorrow against the All Blacks.
“He’s slotted in like he’s been here for a long time, and the boys love him.”
Pietersen also dismissed the suggestion the Sharks are protecting players for Tuesday’s clash, although the ex-Bok on Monday was forced into two late changes following several pre-season injuries.
“It’s an All Blacks game; last time they played here was 1996, if I’m right [Natal hosted New Zealand in 1992] – and it’s a great occasion. If players are fit and ready to play, they’ll take part, because this is our strongest team, the best we could put up as the Sharks.”
Photo: Steve Haag Sports/Gallo Images
The post JP on Ma’a Nonu: His name says it all appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
Sharks coach JP Pietersen backs Ma’a Nonu’s experience against the All Blacks, with limited centre options also influencing the decision to select the veteran on the bench.
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