All Black Nonu Could Join NRL

The 24-year-old union star is a fan of rugby league and would enjoy the challenge of pursuing a career in the 13-a-side game, with Australia’s NRL Premiership the preferred destination.

"I watch a lot of rugby league and really love the game," said Nonu. "I am contracted to the All Blacks until next year but I am willing to talk to NRL clubs."

Nonu could play a number of positions in league, saying of himself: "I'm not sure where I would play – it would just be where I could step in."

"I played a bit of league back in school," he added. "I support the Bulldogs, Terry Lamb [a stand-off] was one of my heroes and I watch the boys every game.

The NRL’s chief executive David Gallop told reporters that that capture of a player such as Nonu by any of the sixteen clubs in the NRL Premiership would be a major capture for rugby league.

"He is obviously a class player," Gallop said. "The intensity at both club and representative level in the NRL attracts these marquee players."