Only days after the franchise announced experienced All Blacks prop Tony Woodcock was heading south in a surprise move, Kirwan has been forced to pledge his commitment to keeping Nonu.
If the former All Black wing wanted a smooth transition into his new role after replacing Pat Lam, the reality is proving a little different.
"I'm really excited that Ma'a is part of our team and I am looking forward to working with him," Kirwan said. "He is contracted to the Blues next season and I see him very much as a key member of our squad in the 2013 Blues campaign."
The rumours increased in Dunedin yesterday after the second five-eighth was evasive when asked about his plans for next season.
Highlanders coach Jamie Joseph was also coy yesterday when asked about the prospect of signing Nonu, a 30-year-old veteran of 69 tests for the All Blacks.
"I wish, but I don't think so," he said.
Monday is deadline day for franchises to inform the New Zealand Rugby Union and players' association of any intended "de-listed" players - those whom they wish to move on by mutual agreement or otherwise - which accounts for some of the recent rumours of player movement.
