New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the Blues have confirmed that All Blacks midfielder Ma’a Nonu has signed with NZR and the Blues for 2014 and 2015.
rugby365
31-year-old Nonu, who played for the Highlanders this season, will return to the team he played for in 2012. He has so far played 133 Super Rugby games and 85 Tests for the All Blacks in a decade-long professional rugby career.
Blues head coach John Kirwan welcomed Nonu’s return to the Auckland-based franchise.
“Ma’a has been in brilliant form for the All Blacks and we’re thrilled to welcome him back to the Blues. He’s one of the best midfielders in the world so to have someone with his abilities is a huge asset to the squad,” he said.
New Zealand Rugby CEO Steve Tew said: “We are delighted that Ma’a is staying in New Zealand for the next two seasons. He remains a world-class player who is important to New Zealand Rugby, including the All Blacks, and we are happy that the issue of his future has now been resolved.”
Nonu said: “I am excited to be staying in New Zealand and returning to play my rugby with the Blues. While I had options to play elsewhere, my preference was always to stay, so my family and I are really happy that I can do that.
“I would like to thank the Blues and New Zealand Rugby for giving me the chance to re-sign for a further two years. I’m really looking forward to next year’s Super Rugby season and playing in front of the Blues fans.”