Ma'a Nonu's former mentor believes the veteran Blues midfielder's form in Super Rugby "demands a position" in the All Blacks.
Not many coaches know Nonu quite like Colin Cooper, who the 104‑test All Black played under during the Chiefs coach's tenure with the Hurricanes from 2003 to 2010.
Since returning to New Zealand after three years with French club Toulon, Nonu's positive early form for the Blues was highlighted by an eye‑catching display in their 32‑29 win over the Waratahs at Eden Park last Saturday.
Cooper says Nonu’s form doesn't surprise him and he has really put his hand up to say he's back and playing in top form.
Nonu, however, was not among the 41 players the All Blacks said would attend one of their "foundation days" in Wellington next Monday.
The Blues will play the Chiefs at 7.35pm this Saturday.
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