Jonah Lomu: New Zealand rugby union great dies aged 40

New Zealand rugby union great Jonah Lomu has died aged 40.

Lomu, who scored 43 tries and played 63 Tests for New Zealand between 1994 and 2002, was diagnosed with a serious kidney condition while still playing.

It forced him to quit the game and he had a kidney transplant in 2004, but it stopped functioning in 2011.

"Jonah was a legend of our game and loved by his many fans both here and around the world," said New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Tew.

"We're lost for words and our heartfelt sympathies go out to Jonah's family."

Lomu made his Test debut in 1994 against France in Christchurch. He spent time in the UK recently for the 2015 Rugby World Cup.

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key said: "The thoughts of the entire country are with his family.

As well as playing for several domestic teams in his homeland, Lomu made 10 appearances for Cardiff Blues in Wales, shortly before his retirement in 2007.

     

Author: 
BBC