It’s no, no, no, no to Nonu
THE Highlanders are the latest Super Rugby franchise to slam the door on Ma’a Nonu as the New Zealand Rugby Union faces up to a king-sized problem with its star midfield back.
Highlanders chief executive Roger Clark effectively ruled out Nonu returning for a second season in 2014, leaving him without a realistic Super Rugby option in New Zealand. Clark said his organisation’s position in regards to the All Blacks midfielder had not changed.
‘‘We haven’t had any discussions with Ma’a since April,’’ Clark said.
Nonu wants to return to the Hurricanes but his problem is that coach Mark Hammett is not interested, following their acrimonious split in 2011.
This is despite the NZRU trying to convince Hammett otherwise.
The Crusaders, Blues and Chiefs have all stated they are not interested in contracting Nonu, creating speculation the 31-year-old may return to the Highlanders.
However, Clark wasn’t the case.
It seems the Highlanders have moved on after not hearing from Nonu, or his representatives, for three months.
Yesterday, Crusaders coach Todd Blackadder reiterated
said
that Nonu would not be playing in Christchurch next year.
‘‘In our thinking, it’s been clearly stated he’s wanting to be in Wellington,’’ he said. ‘‘He’s a great player but we want players that want to be here.’’
The Crusaders will instead remain loyal to midfielders Ryan Crotty, Tom Taylor and Robbie Fruean, if he makes a full recovery following his heart operation.
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen reiterated his disappointment that none of the franchises had so far offered Nonu a contract.
‘‘It’s got nothing to do with me. I can’t force anyone to take him, but I think he’s the best second five-eighth at the moment in world rugby.’’
Nonu sat out last night’s All Blacks training matches at the Hutt Rec as he recovers from an ankle injury, but hopes to be fit for the Rugby Championship opener against the Wallabies in Sydney next Saturday.