New Zealand's fourth-best first five-eighths expected to exit the country quietly after playing for Waikato in the ITM Cup. Instead he finished his time in New Zealand in front of 61,079 at Eden Park and an estimated television audience of 500 million.
He received a huge ovation when he entered the fray in the 34th minute as Aaron Cruden was helped off with a knee injury. It was a nice touch from a New Zealand public who haven't always felt charitable towards the 27-year-old. They knew this moment was the time to show unity and support for a common cause.
It didn't mean they had every confidence in him and there were more than a few who ran their hands through their hair.
Donald has maintained incredible confidence in his ability, regardless of what has been said of him, and he strode purposefully to grab the ball to kick a 45th minute penalty. He nailed it between the uprights and immediately sprinted back to his position for the kickoff as the adrenaline surged.
Donald made a half-break soon after and nudged a handy touchfinder with 11 minutes remaining that put the All Blacks in good attacking position.
But it was his single penalty that was the difference. It was a telling contribution in a World Cup of poor goalkicking. Piri Weepu had missed all three of his first-half attempts and France landed just one (of three) of theirs, and that was from right in front.
It was a kick that had 24 years of pressure on it. It meant a lot more than just three points.
Donald was one unlikely hero on a night of improbable happenings. New Zealand's other points were scored by prop Tony Woodcock, who was paying close to $100 at the TAB as the game's first try-scorer. It was his first World Cup try and just his eighth in his 83rd test.
Forwards coach Steve Hansen was the architect of the move that saw Woodcock rush through the middle of a lineout and run clear to the line. A quiet pat on the back from Graham Henry was clear acknowledgement.
The coaches showed a lot more emotion at the final whistle. It was relief, mostly, before pride and satisfaction hit and a crooked smirk his Henry's face.
At last the nation can rest more easily. This one will taste a lot sweeter than in 1987 because no one knew what the World Cup would mean 24 years ago.
This side has learned to deal with adversity and that was no better illustrated than by Donald. His tale will enter folklore and be told by more than just whitebaiters for years to come.