December 20 - 2014 - Ma'a Nonu signs with Toulon

“DECEMBER

20 French club Toulon announce the signing of Ma’a Nonu for two years after next year’s World Cup.”

From 2015 Rugby Almanack “Chronicle of Events” p. 378.

“This morning, Toulon announced the 94-Test All Black midfielder had signed a two-year deal which will see him leave New Zealand’s shores following next year’s World Cup.

Toulon boss Mourad Boudjellal said former All Black captain Tana Umaga’s strong connection with the club played a part in Nonu’s decision. It is also where Sonny Bill Williams first tried his hand at the 15-man code after walking out on the NRL in 2008.

“It was a wish of ours because Toulon really took off with Tana Umaga,” Boudjellal said.

“Nonu is a great centre with a good mouth on him and that is something we like at Toulon.”

Nonu joins Dan Carter, signed with Racing Metro, on the list of high-profile All Blacks confirmed to leave following the global tournament. Centurions Richie McCaw, Keven Mealamu and Tony Woodcock are also likely to be added to the group in the coming months.

Clermont’s Fijian winger Napolioni Nalaga has also joined the French giants while former Italy and Stade Francais fly-half Diego Dominguez will take over the head coaching role from Bernard Laporte in 2016.

Dominguez, who also won two caps for Argentina, has no coaching experience. He ended his career at Stade Francais in 2004.”