Ma'a Nonu reflects on emotional Haka that nearly never happened

In New Zealand's second match of their South African tour, the visitors produced their war dance before the legendary centre, who has signed a short-term deal with the Sharks, stepped forward in response.

It was a unique and spectacular moment, and one which made complete sense given that he had earned over 100 caps for the All Blacks and won two Rugby World Cups.

However, it nearly did not happen, as the self-effacing Nonu was initially hesitant about doing the Kapa o Pango, but Tana Umaga was among those to help change his mind.

"It was a spur-of-the-moment thing. They asked me and had discussions about it the night before, and I kind of said no because I didn't want it to be about myself," he told Sky Sport NZ.

"Being on the bench and the All Blacks and my history with the team, I wanted it to be about the All Blacks and the Sharks and the Greatest Rivalry.

"I spoke to Tana [Umaga] and asked Tamati [Ellison] for permission in terms of doing it out of respect on behalf of our team, on behalf of myself and my family, and I thought it was the right thing to do – to answer the boys and the All Blacks."

Nonu was on the bench for the encounter with his former team, but the 44-year-old came onto the field for the final 20 minutes and went about his business with usual ferocity.

Although the All Blacks eventually ran out comfortable 54-0 victors over the Sharks, it was still a special moment to see the legendary centre on the field, almost 11 years after his final match for New Zealand.

"I got here last Monday and they just needed help; they needed someone on the bench so it would have been rude to say no," Nonu said.

"I thought I would put the boots on, so luckily I got 20 minutes, and I tried my best. It was great to see the boys, and to play against them for the first time was such a privilege and an honour.

"To do the Haka as well; to show my respect on behalf of my family to the boys and to the team I love and will always love."

It is remarkable that Nonu is still able to play at this level while in his mid-40s, with the midfield powerhouse remaining a force with ball in hand.

"It's alright, I sat down too long, I should have warmed up a bit more," he responded when asked by Justin Marshall how the body is holding up.

"The All Blacks opened up in the last 30 minutes so I was chasing my tail but fair credit to them, they're improving, so all the best to the brothers for the next game and I can't wait to see them play."