Pietersen defends Ma'a Nonu Sharks selection

Sharks head coach JP Pietersen has defended his decision to include All Blacks great Ma’a Nonu in the matchday squad for Tuesday’s clash against New Zealand at Kings Park.

The 44-year-old has been named among the replacements despite only recently joining the Durban franchise in a mentoring and player-development role.

Pietersen Defends Ma’a Nonu Selection

Nonu’s inclusion attracted debate because the Sharks have promoted the former New Zealand centre primarily as a mentor for their emerging players.

Pietersen, however, rejected suggestions that selecting Nonu had denied a younger player an opportunity.

"This is our strongest team," Pietersen insisted.

"It's great he's here with us and giving our young boys just a feel of what the All Blacks may give to them. He's slot in like he was here for a long (time) and the boys love him.

"It's going to be an emotional game for Ma'a because it's the first time he's playing against the All Blacks. It'll be awesome to see tomorrow."

The Sharks are currently managing their resources across international call-ups, preseason preparations and the Currie Cup.

Ma’a Nonu Set to Face All Blacks

Nonu will wear the No.23 jersey against the country he represented 103 times between 2003 and 2015.

He was a central figure in New Zealand’s Rugby World Cup-winning campaigns in 2011 and 2015 and will now have the unusual experience of facing the All Blacks for the first time.

Sharks Prepare for Historic Durban Clash

The match forms the second fixture of Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry tour after the All Blacks opened their South African campaign with a 38-21 victory over the Stormers.