Kirwan names coaches for Nonu

Blues coach John Kirwan is confident he can buck the trend and get the best out of Ma’a Nonu in Super Rugby.

Nonu’s two-year deal with the Blues was confirmed yesterday in a contract that will enable him to play in New Zealand until the next World Cup and avoid, for the New Zealand Rugby Union, the embarrassment of having one of its leading All Blacks forced overseas.

After playing for three franchises in as many years, Nonu returns to the Blues with a reputation of not being able to produce his A-game at this level.

Kirwan believes he has coaches around him, in Sir Graham Henry and Mick Byrne, who can help Nonu play to his potential.

‘‘They know Ma’a and both of them are really excited about having him back. One of the first people I spoke to about it was Ted [Henry]. We went through the process long and hard and thought about it and we are just excited to have the world’s best midfield back playing for us next year,’’ Kirwan said.

‘‘In the All Blacks environment, he is really enjoying it and the important thing for us is to create a similar environment for him to express himself and thrive.’’

Kirwan said there was no pressure from the NZRU to take Nonu.

‘‘Not at all, and that wouldn’t rub too well with me, if you know me,’’ Kirwan said. ‘‘I didn’t want to see Ma’a leaving New Zealand. He’s an outstanding player and, if we can get him playing his best for us and playing for the All Blacks for the next couple of years, that’s good for everyone.’’

Kirwan scoffed at suggestions Nonu is ‘‘a problem child’’.

‘‘People told me that about Rene Ranger last year as well and I found Rene fantastic, he turned into a great leader for us and played like one.

‘‘I look at what Ma’a is doing in the All Blacks and there’s not a bad word coming out of that environment.’’