Ma’a Nonu signs with Highlanders for Super Rugby

The speculative future of All Black centre Ma’a Nonu has been answered, with the 30-year old joining the Highlanders for the 2013 Super Rugby season.

Highlanders Head Coach Jamie Joseph said that having a world-class midfielder like Nonu will be a huge boost for the franchise.

“Ma’a has been a standout performer for the All Blacks over his playing career and he would bring some great playing form to our squad next season. He has a lot of big match experience at international level and we know that we would benefit from that,” Joseph said.

“Ma’a has indicated he sees many advantages for him and his family in being part of the Highlanders environment and we would welcome that. We’re very proud of the support we give to the families of our players, and the support we get in return is a vital part of the strong family-focus we have within the Highlanders,” he added.

Nonu was previously contracted to the Blues for the 2012 season, and with the Hurricanes prior to that.

Highlanders General Manager Roger Clark commented that the signing of Nonu will have a signifficantly positive affect on the team environment.

“Ma’a is a world-class player who would add real excitement to the Highlanders in 2013. It’s testament to the work the coaching and management team have put in both on and off the field that a player like Ma’a has decided he’d like to join us.”

Nonu will join the Highlanders for pre-season training early in the New Year.