The sporting world is in shock after the sudden death of New Zealand rugby legend Jonah Lomu. Lomu, who was the star of the 1995 World Cup, was a flying winger who became known as one of rugby’s most iconic ever players. A report on television outlet 3News said the 40-year-old’s death was ‘unexpected’ – but he had been suffering from various health problems. Lomu was forced to retire early in 2002 due to kidney disease, and he had been undertaking regular dialysis treatment over the last 10 years. However, despite that, Lomu was recently in England for the Rugby World Cup, where he had worked as a spokesman for Heineken. Lomu also joined the All Blacks in performing a traditional haka dance in London's Covent Garden in what would be his last performance. An imposing mountain of a man with speed to burn, the gentle giant Lomu scored a record 15 tries in Wold Cup games during his career. “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.” Cred: Telegraph/Guardian
