All Blacks legend Ma'a Nonu has rejoined Toulon with immediate effect aged 42

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Toulon have sent shockwaves through the rugby world with the announcement that Ma'a Nonu is making a sensational return to the club—at the age of 42!

Find your local Greene King and settle in for the 2025 Six Nations!

The All Blacks legend, who won back-to-back Rugby World Cups with New Zealand, has signed as a medical joker until the end of the season.

This marks Nonu's third stint with RCT, having previously played for the club between 2015-2018 and 2020-2021, reaching two Top 14 finals. While he hasn't played since July, his influence in Toulon has already been felt—he's been working with the squad in recent weeks, sparking speculation about a return to the pitch.

Manager Pierre Mignoni only added fuel to the fire when asked about Nonu's retirement status, cheekily responding: "You'll have to ask him if he's actually retired or not."

One thing is certain—Nonu's comeback is set to bring plenty of excitement (and some serious midfield muscle) to the Top 14.

EDITORS PICKS:

Five British and Irish Lions hopefuls who FLOPPED in Six Nations round three

Steve Borthwick's men survived a late scare as Finn Russell's conversion slid wide, allowing them to snatch their first win over Scotland since 2020. Meanwhile, Wales looked revitalized under Matt Sherratt, producing their best display of the tournament so far.

But who had a weekend to forget? RUCK Editor Steve Smith takes a look at five players who struggled in round three.

Henry Slade – England

So much talent, yet another disappointing display on the international stage. Slade had a torrid time against Scotland, missing key tackles that left England exposed.

His defensive lapses piled pressure on his teammates, while his attacking contribution was minimal—offering little creativity in midfield. With fierce competition for places, could this be the end of the road for him under Steve Borthwick?

Nowhere near the Lions conversation right now.

Finn Russell – Scotland

A night to forget for Scotland's co-captain. While his passing and movement constantly tested England's defence, his goal-kicking proved costly.

In a game of fine margins, his missed kicks—especially the late conversion that drifted wide—ultimately defined the result. A fly-half of his quality is expected to deliver in clutch moments, and he'll know he left points behind. Scotland fans won't let this one slide easily.

The Lions will want their No. 10 to be reliable off the tee. Fin Smith and Sam Prendergast are breathing down his neck.

Jack Dempsey – Scotland

Struggled to make his mark in an intense physical battle. He carried with intent but was let down by handling errors and poor decision-making at key moments.

Scotland needed stability in the back row, but Dempsey was too often on the fringes rather than in the thick of it. A frustrating afternoon where his effort wasn't matched by execution, leaving Scotland's pack without the control he was expected to bring.

The No. 8 jersey for the Lions remains up for grabs, though Caelan Doris leads the charge for the 2025 tour.

CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO


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