Blues coach Leon MacDonald has praised former All Blacks and new Blues recruit Ma'a Nonu for passing on his knowledge to the younger players in the Auckland Super Rugby franchise.

Speaking to media during training in Auckland, MacDonald said his former All Blacks teammate Nonu has been a great mentor for the younger players.

MacDonald says the 103‑Test All Black, who previously played for the Blues from 2012 to 2014, is eager to get advice from the coaching staff to improve his  game.

MacDonald says Nonu has been a big positive influence to the team since coming into the Blues environment.

Super rugby's organising body Sanzaar have confirmed the dates for the 2019 Super rugby season which will start on Friday 15 February.

[Source: TVNZ]