All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu dies aged 40

[josie andrews]

Former All Blacks doctor confirmed news on Wednesday morning

‘We’re all shocked and deeply saddened’, says New Zealand Rugby CEO

New Zealand is mourning one of its greatest sporting heroes after the former All Blacks player Jonah Lomu passed away unexpectedly in Auckland on Wednesday, aged 40.

John Mayhew, the former All Blacks doctor, confirmed the news on Wednesday morning, TV3 reported.

“We’re all shocked and deeply saddened at the sudden death of Jonah Lomu,” New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Tew said.

“Jonah was a legend of our game and loved by his many fans both here and around the world. We’re lost for words and our heartfelt sympathies go out to Jonah’s family.”

Lomu had suffered from health problems since his retirement from playing in 2002 due to the rare kidney disease, Nephrotic syndrome. He had been on dialysis treatment for the past 10 years.

He had recently travelled to the UK for the Rugby World Cup, during which he was a spokesperson for Heineken.

He played in 63 Tests for New Zealand after making his debut in 1994. He scored 37 tries and his physical, often brutal, running game regularly terrorised defences the world over.

The bullocking try he scored against England at the 1995 World Cup will in particular live long in the memory as he swatted away defenders with consummate ease on his way to the line. The effort was this year voted the greatest in World Cup history.

http://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/n ... to-reports

[josie andrews]

Such sad news.

Sincere condolences to his family & friends.

RIP ????????????

[Smokie Jim]

Just heard on radio and read your post. Very sad RIP

[southernpie]

Very sad news RIP Jonah

[BriH]

The biggest shock for me was when he was diagnosed with his kidney disease.
Sad he's gone.

[BriH]

If anyone is interested there is a tribute programme on Sky Sports 5 @ 19:00 tonight.
Shaun Edwards + Sean Fitzpatrick guests.