The Sharks have reportedly secured one of rugby's greatest-ever centres, with head coach JP Pietersen bringing Ma'a Nonu to Durban ahead of the new season.
According to Rapport, the former All Blacks star will primarily take on a mentorship role, helping to develop the Sharks' exciting crop of outside backs, including Jurenzo Julius, Jaco Williams and Zekhethelo Siyaya.
However, the 44-year-old won't just be passing on his knowledge from the sidelines.
It is understood Nonu will also be available for selection if required, providing experienced cover at inside centre when Springbok powerhouse André Esterhuizen is away on international duty. His renowned physicality and direct running style make him an ideal stand-in for the Sharks captain.
Pietersen reunites with former teammate
Pietersen knows exactly what Nonu brings to the table.
The pair spent years battling one another in fierce Springbok-All Blacks Test matches and Super Rugby clashes between the Sharks and Hurricanes before later becoming teammates at French giants Toulon.
Now, Pietersen is set to tap into Nonu's vast experience as he looks to accelerate the development of some of South Africa's brightest young talents.
One of rugby's greatest centres
Nonu remains one of the most decorated players in modern rugby.
The All Blacks icon won 103 Test caps for New Zealand and played a pivotal role in back-to-back Rugby World Cup triumphs in 2011 and 2015.
Across a glittering professional career, he has represented the Blues, Highlanders, Hurricanes, Toulon, Black Rams Tokyo and San Diego Legion, while also making an appearance for Toulon against the Stormers earlier this year.
If the report is accurate, Sharks supporters could yet see the legendary midfielder back in action in the United Rugby Championship next season.
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All Blacks Handed NIGHTMARE Route to 2027 Rugby World Cup Final
The All Blacks have been handed a potentially brutal route to the 2027 Rugby World Cup final after being drawn alongside hosts Australia in one of the tournament’s toughest pools.
With the competition expanding to 24 teams and introducing a Round of 16 for the first time, New Zealand can already map out their possible path to the Webb Ellis Cup — and it is packed with danger.
Pool A: A Trans-Tasman Showdown
New Zealand have been drawn in Pool A with Australia, creating one of the marquee clashes of the group stage. The All Blacks and Wallabies are expected to battle for top spot, with the pool winner earning a potentially more favourable route through the knockout stages.
Under the tournament format, the top two teams from each pool automatically qualify for the Round of 16, while the four best third-placed teams across all pools also advance.
For New Zealand, the objective will be simple: finish first in Pool A.
Round of 16: A Third-Placed Opponent Awaits
If the All Blacks top Pool A, they will face one of the tournament's best third-placed teams in the Round of 16.
Based on the draw, that opponent would come from Pools C, E or F. Possible challengers could include:
- Samoa, USA or Japan (Pool E)
- Wales or Tonga (Pool F)
- One of the emerging contenders from Pool C
On paper, this should represent a manageable first knockout assignment for New Zealand.
Quarter-Final: Potential Clash with South Africa
The bracket reveals the first major obstacle on New Zealand's path.
Should the All Blacks win Pool A and progress through the Round of 16, they are likely to face the winner of Pool B in the quarter-finals. Defending champions South Africa are overwhelming favourites to top that group, which also contains Italy, Georgia and Romania.
That means the Rugby Championship rivals could be set for another World Cup knockout classic, with the Springboks standing between New Zealand and the final four.
Given South Africa's recent dominance and World Cup pedigree, many observers view this as one of the most anticipated potential quarter-finals of the tournament.
Semi-Final: France Looms Large
If New Zealand overcome South Africa, the likely semi-final opponent would emerge from the opposite side of the bracket containing Pool E.
France are strong favourites to win Pool E, which also includes Japan, Samoa and the United States.
Les Bleus are expected to navigate their side of the draw and could set up a blockbuster semi-final against the All Blacks. A meeting between two of world rugby's most talented squads would undoubtedly be one of the highlights of the tournament.
Potential Final Opponents
Should New Zealand reach the final, several heavyweight nations could await.
The opposite half of the draw is expected to be led by:
- Ireland
- Scotland
- Argentina
- England
England's route appears favourable if they top Pool F, while Ireland and Scotland will again meet in the pool stage before potentially making deep runs into the knockout rounds.
Argentina, meanwhile, remain one of the dark horses after their impressive performances in recent World Cups.
Predicted Route to the Final
Assuming the major nations win their pools, the All Blacks' most likely pathway would be:
Pool Stage
- Australia
- Other Pool A opponents
Round of 16
- Best third-placed qualifier (from Pools C, E or F)
Quarter-Final
- South Africa (Pool B winner)
Semi-Final
- France (Pool E winner)
Final
- Ireland, England, Scotland or Argentina
Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players
From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.
Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!
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