Watch: Special moment as Ma'a Nonu performs haka to the All Blacks
All Black legend Ma'a Nonu performed a haka before a match against his former team while playing for the Sharks. Nonu sought permission from All Black staff to ensure the gesture was respectful and focused on the rivalry rather than himself.
Why it matters
The haka is a significant cultural symbol in rugby, and this event highlights the intersection of professional sports rivalries and personal respect among veteran players.
All Black great Ma'a Nonu said he sought the advice of the All Blacks before deciding to perform a haka against them.
Nonu was named on the Sharks bench for the second game of the All Blacks tour of South Africa and while he came on in the second half, his most memorable contribution was possibly before the game.
After facing the All Blacks haka, Nonu, who played 103 tests for the All Blacks, then performed his own.
The 44-year-old said he initially said no when the Sharks asked him about doing it the night before the game.
"I didn't want it to be about me, being on the bench and my history with the team, I wanted it to be about the All Blacks and the Sharks and the great rivalry," Nonu told Sky Sport.
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