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'He's been training like a 19-year-old'
By Online Editors
Ma'a Nonu's return to New Zealand has been met with both anticipation and scepticism.
Hoping to make a push for a third World Cup appearance later this year, Nonu has rejoined the Blues where he will likely make a formidable midfield partnership with Sonny Bill Williams.
Blues assistant coach Tom Coventry had plenty to say to the sceptics doubting Nonu's ability to make an impact despite now being 36 years old.
"Ma'a hasn't missed a trick," Coventry told NZME. "He hasn't missed a training, he hasn't been put on a restricted load, he's done everything asked of him and he's been training like a 19-year-old."
"He's been marvellous and has fit in seamlessly, really."
Despite Nonu spending the last three seasons with French club Toulon, Coventry said his conditioning and motivation is still well ahead of the curve.
"Ma'a is in great nick," Coventry said. "He's a true pro. He's come back into our environment, he brings all that experience. Just watching him train, he and Sonny have fit into our team beautifully."
Nonu played an integral role in New Zealand's back-to-back World Cup triumphs in 2011 and 2015 and has notched 103 tests in black.
Initially a star for Wellington and the Hurricanes, this stint with the Blues will be his third with the side after suiting up for the club in 2012 and 2014. He also spent a year with the Highlanders in 2013 and had been linked to a move to the Chiefs earlier this year.
If his play is good enough to earn selection for the World Cup in Japan later this year, Nonu could become one of the first players to win three World Cups.
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Latest Comments
The New Zealand performance in the return fixture in 2016 was filthy. A lot of Irish supporters were pretty shocked by it, viewed it as de facto cheating just to avoid another defeat.
Also shocked by the abuse to Ireland, captain, vice-captain and spectators after the full time whistle in Paris defeat, last match.
Sledging is sledging, but that happens during the game and targetting spectators should be completely out of bounds.
The Irish public used to enjoy these matches, even in defeat. Now they are necessary but unpleasant, because NZ apparently cannot accept or respect successful challengers.
Go to commentsThanks for the analysis Nick, thought provoking as usual. Couple of queries though, in the pic where you've circled Williams bind , I'm pretty sure it shows Stuart's knee on the ground, surely that's a NZ penalty? Also having had the chance to watch it again the All Black scrum seeems to improve after halftime, but before either England or the All Blacks replace their props. Not sure if that was the result of Tuipolutu coming on or some halftime tips. Either way this is only Williams second international season, so he'll be better for the experience.
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