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

In a unique display of respect and defiance, former All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu performed a solo haka against his former national team while representing the South African Sharks. The 44-year-old stepped out alone in front of his new teammates to deliver the traditional challenge before the match.

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I thought it would be rude to say no. I thought I would put the boots on and try to help the team really.

Nonu, who played 103 games for the All Blacks between 2003 and 2015, sought permission from New Zealand assistant coaches Tana Umaga and Tamati Ellison before performing the haka. He explained his decision stemmed from a desire to show respect to the team he once loved and to answer their challenge on behalf of his new club.

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Out of respect for our team and on behalf of myself and my family, I thought it was the right thing to do, to answer the boys and the All Blacks.

"I thought it would be rude to say no," Nonu told broadcaster SuperSport, explaining his initial reluctance and eventual decision to play. "I thought I would put the boots on and try to help the team really."

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It was such a privilege and an honour, and to do the haka, showing my respect on behalf of my family to the team I love.

Despite the Sharks' 54-0 loss to the All Blacks, Nonu's solo haka became a standout moment. He acknowledged the dominant performance of the New Zealand team, stating, "The All Blacks opened up in the last 30 minutes and I was chasing my tail. Credit to them, they're improving, and all the best to the brothers for the next game."

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The All Blacks opened up in the last 30 minutes and I was chasing my tail. Credit to them, they're improving, and all the best to the brothers for the next game.