Former New Zealand International rugby star Jonah Lomu has passed away at the age of 40 in Auckland after a long battle with health problems. Lomu, who played 63 matches for the All Blacks between 1994 to 2002, had suffered from a kidney disease since his retirement from rugby in 2002 and he had been on dialysis ever since his kidney stopped functioning in October 2011.
Chief executive of New Zealand Rugby, Steve Tew, described Lomu as a legend of their game and loved by many rugby fans both in New Zealand and worldwide. He concluded by sending a message of condolences to Lomu’s family.
John Mayhew, family spokesman, told New Zealand television TV3: “I can confirm that Jonah Lomu died this morning…it was totally unexpected, Jonah and his family arrived back from the UK last night.”
Lomu’s rugby debut
Lomu made his All Blacks debut in 1994 and made a huge impact by scoring four tries in a 45-29 win against England at the 1995 World Rugby Cup which was held in South Africa. His outstanding performance at the World Cup established him as the sport’s first worldwide superstar. While representing his country, he also played for numerous domestic teams including Chiefs, Auckland Blues, Hurricanes, Counties Manukau, Willington and North Harbour. Lomu was inaugurated into the 2007 International Rugby Hall of Fame and the IRB Hall of Fame in 2011.
Rest in peace Jonah Lomu, you inspired a generation of rugby players around the world
