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Ma’a Nonu remains without a Super Rugby team next year after the Highlanders confirmed they won’t offer the game-breaking All Black a new contract.
Nonu’s playing future has become increasingly murky following successive lacklustre one-season campaigns – with the Blues in 2012 and Highlanders in 2013.
The 79-Test veteran performed strongly for the All Blacks during the 3-0 home sweep of France in June, reinforcing the viewpoint of critics who say he doesn’t produce his best at Super Rugby level.
He missed the last two rounds of the Highlanders’ poor season after being sent off for an illegal tackle against the Crusaders on June 29.
The 31-year-old hasn’t discussed his future since but Highlanders chief executive Roger Clark told The Otago Daily Times that his contract won’t be renewed.
Clark said his franchise put a deal to Nonu in April and received no response so had “moved on”.
With officials at the Blues, Chiefs and Crusaders having all said they won’t sign the powerful inside centre, it leaves a return to the Hurricanes as the only feasible outcome.
However, Nonu left that franchise under a cloud in 2010 following a clash with new coach Mark Hammett, who set about changing elements of the Hurricanes’ culture.
The pair met last week in Wellington, where Nonu has also played for his club side.
Hammett refused to comment about what was discussed.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen this week said he hoped one of the world’s premier players could be welcomed back to the Hurricanes but was unsure if the franchise was ready to do so.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.