The All Blacks team performed a special Haka dedicated to former Wallabies star Nathan Charles after he was diagnosed with motor neurone disease (MND). Ahead of their New Zealand vs Australia game, the All Blacks did something that no other team has ever done. As high and historic as they consider their haka to be, the All Blacks went all out in support of Nathan.
Together with the coaches, the staff and the players, they all came to the line as Nathan Charles watched. Looking at Nathan, the gesture melted his heart; he couldn’t hold his joy until the All Blacks came in their numbers, hugging him and showing him love.
THE ALL BLACKS SUPPORT NATHAN CHARLES
Besides the special haka, Cordie Taylor also showed the All Blacks’ support for the former hooker. His words also showed the unity and love that rugby rivals share, in challenging times like this.
“It’s a tough place to get up and talk about, obviously, the news you’ve had, mate, but I just want to acknowledge you, and what you’ve done for your nation over the years…you’re fighting a tough battle, but on behalf of the All Blacks, mate, we’re right in behind you. We want to say how special it was to see you in Auckland last week and to make the effort to come over. You know, we wish you all the best; the boys will be praying for you, brother, and whatever is ahead of you, we wish you all the best.” Taylor said.
After performing the haka, the All Blacks also presented a signed jersey to Nathan Charles, something to go home with. They also expressed their support to his family, the people that have always been by his side. They also showed their support to all the people with MND.
“With you all the way, Nathan 🇳🇿🤝🏼🇦🇺. Today, we send our love to Nathan, Charles and his whānau, and everyone affected by MND, standing together to raise awareness and show our support 🖤,” they said.
WALLABIES CAPTAIN HARRY WILSON ALSO SHOWED HIS SUPPORT TO NATHAN CHARLES
Besides the All Blacks, Australia captain Harry Wilson also showed his support to Nathan Charles.
“A really special moment to be able to sing the national anthem next to @nathancharles2 – you’re a true inspiration to us all,” Harry said.
“Disappointing 2 weeks against a quality opposition. Opportunity now to freshen up and get ready for a big spring tour. Love this group 💛💚,” he finished, looking ahead following the defeat at the hands of the All Blacks.
THE ALL BLACKS BRING RIVAL FANS TOGETHER
After sharing the video of their haka dedicated to Nathan Charles, rival fans worldwide came together appreciating the All Blacks’ gesture.
@Werdna Nospoh “I’m an Aussie bloke, and MND took my mum. This brought me to tears. All Blacks have so much respect. Thank you”
@Paddy Saunders “Enormous from the All Blacks, tremendous class. Thank you for the respect and kindness you delivered to one of our own. ❤️🙏”
@Josh Hickford 🇳🇿 “Wow, that had a whole different level of human feeling and meaning to the on-field haka 🙏🏼”