'Rude to say no': All Blacks icon performs solo haka against current team

Former All Blacks star Ma a Nonu has taken the stage solo, performing a haka against the present-day All Blacks squad. Nonu, who once played 103 games for the All Blacks from 2003 to 2015, exchanged words with All Blacks advisors Tana Umaga and Tamati Ellison before following through. The 44-year-old admitted he was chasing his tail as the All Blacks secured a 54-0 victory.

South African rugby teams have never previously responded to New Zealand's traditional pre-match challenge with a haka, but Ma a Nonu stepped in, performing the haka for his new Sharks teammates during a match that the New Zealanders won 54-0 at Kings Park. The Sharks signed Nonu a week ago to assist in developing their young players; they later drafted him onto the bench due to an extended injury list.

Initially hesitant to detract from the Sharks' first match against the All Blacks in 30 years, Nonu ultimately agreed, expressing his willingness to help the team. He discussed replying to the All Blacks' haka with New Zealand assistant coaches Tana Umaga and Tamati Ellison, stating it was the right thing to do in respect for his team and family.

Standing alone with the Sharks behind him, Ma a Nonu performed the All Blacks' own haka, Kapa o Pango, to an initially silent crowd and then to growing cheers. Afterward, he nodded to the All Blacks, many of whom reciprocated. Only Codie Taylor and Beauden Barrett from Nonu's last squad still play for New Zealand. Nonu got 20 minutes of action before the All Blacks opened up in the last 30 minutes, and he chased his tail as his team won. The All Blacks showed improvement, and he expressed his gratitude for the experience.