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All Blacks’ inside centre Ma’a Nonu is on the prowl for a new team after being told he doesn’t have a future at the Highlanders.
That news means Nonu has now played with the Hurricanes, Blues and Highlanders – the latter two on successive one-year deals where he wasn’t deemed worthy of an extension.
His continued selection in the best rugby team in the world, the All Blacks (79 times), is testament to his talent but when reflected on his lack of success at Super Rugby level it shows he isn’t committed enough as a week-to-week player or a suitable off-field influence around a team.
It’s possibly fitting that his Super Rugby career may finish with him suspended for two games after a reckless tackle.
Apparently the Hurricanes have been looking at the possibility of bringing the veteran back into the fold after he was pushed out, along with Andrew Hore, in favour of a youth oriented clean-out.
Conrad Smith was the source of the rumour the Hurricanes would be back in the hunt and while it probably counts as an old mate trying to give someone a leg-up many believe the NZRU is trying to manipulate the situation to find a home for a player not wanted by anyone else.
Some fans felt the Hurricanes were getting the Crusaders left overs in Mark Hammett when he took over in 2011, but the clean-out was a refreshing take and he was given time to build from there.
This year wasn’t the improvement many were hoping for after a bright start in last seasom, but it would still a backward step if the Hurricanes were to allow someone like Nonu back into the club.
What’s the point of cleaning out, building new systems and trusting the development of young talent if you’re going to bail after two seasons and return the known mediocrity of previous years?
If the Hurricanes can’t be enticed to take a leaf out of the Australian Labor Party’s book and return to the past, the NZRU will be forced to make a tough decision.
They will essentially need to weigh whether Nonu is someone they need around for the future at All Blacks level. If that’s their view some sort of sabbatical or loan may have to be constructed to allow him time to get a Super Rugby contract down the line.
I don’t think he’s worth it for New Zealand rugby anymore.
Nonu is 31 years old and has already played almost 80 Tests; he has won games for the All Blacks, but hasn’t been as good for a while. He isn’t the kind of player to be constructing precedent-setting deals around.
My preference is what I alluded to earlier in the year – start looking to the next young crop at inside centre. There’s promising talent there.
The Chiefs have been enjoying the service of Bundee Aki’s first full year at Super Rugby level. He has the makings of a great compliment to a more attacking fly-half. He tackles all day, runs great lines and is really starting to build some rugby nous.
Over at the Blues, the original departure of Nonu has allowed for the emergence of Francis Saili. He’s a skilful and creative player who’s been improving on the defensive side of things as the season progresses.
If there are fears either of those two are too green to make a fist of the All Blacks 12 jersey, playing with an Aaron Cruden/Beauden Barrett – Dan Carter midfield combination may be a stop-gap until either specialist player is considered ready.
I don’t have those fears myself, I believe Saili or Ake could step into the All Blacks outfit and find enough support initially to be successful.
It’s time for New Zealand rugby to move on from Nonu and embrace the future.
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.