All Blacks great Jonah Lomu, who revolutionised wing play to become rugby union’s first global superstar, died on Wednesday in Auckland at the age of 40.
Former All Blacks doctor John Mayhew told TV3 that Lomu, who had a kidney transplant in 2004, had died unexpectedly, while New Zealand Rugby later stated they were “shocked and deeply saddened” by his death.
“We’re lost for words and our heartfelt sympathies go out to Jonah’s family,” chief executive Steve Tew said on Twitter.
“Jonah was a legend of our game and loved by his many fans both here and around the world.”
