You can’t win . . . playing rugby in NZ, says Nonu
HE HAS fashioned a reputation for favouring a direct approach to an opposing backline, though Ma’a Nonu continues to display a deft sidestep when cornered about his future with the All Blacks.
A fortnight ago the stylish midfielder gave himself a two-week deadline to formalise his plans for next year.
That time frame has lapsed but the 30-year-old is still coy on whether he will remain committed to the NZRU – and Blues – for the duration of his current deal.
Nonu signed a two-year extension in July but as a senior All Black with 70 tests worth of service he has an out-clause in his contract and has been pondering his next move for several months.
“We’ll see what happens really, I haven’t made a decision,” he said.
“I have to make week or something.
“It’s a decision based on what I want to do, and my family, not because of any other player.’’
Nonu admitted the indecision
a
call
next was a distraction, sort of: “It’s there, thereabouts, but I haven’t really made it a priority.”
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen was noncommittal about whether Nonu and loose forward Adam Thomson – another player considering his options – would be selected for the end-of-year-tour to Britain and Italy if they were headed for the departure lounge.
“We’ll have to see about that,” he said, adding some guidance had been offered.
“Players have to make their own decision, the only thing I’d say is ‘ Do you still have the desire to wear the black jersey?’ If you have, then don’t go because you’ll regret it.”
Meanwhile, one reason Nonu might fancy a change of scene is the no-win situation he and his team-mates find themselves in as members of New Zealand’s most revered, yet criticised, sporting team – despite their 14-test winning streak.
“You play a side and maybe we pile on the points and then people say the opposition needs to get better. Then we play a test match where we don’t pile on the points and they say we’re not meeting expectations,” he lamented.
“You can’t win, that’s the reality of playing rugby in New Zealand.”