Union in shock at death of All Blacks legend Lomu

The wing, who played 63 Test matches for the All Blacks, had suffered from health problems since his retirement from the game in 2002 due to a rare kidney disease - but the news came as a shock.

New Zealand Rugby confirmed Lomu’s death on Wednesday and chief executive Steve Tew said: “We’re all shocked and deeply saddened at the sudden death of Jonah.

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

Auckland-born Lomu burst onto the global stage at the 1995 World Cup as a 19-year-old and is best remembered for scoring seven tries in four matches in that tournament, including four in the semi-final against England in Cape Town.

He played for several domestic teams in his homeland, Auckland Blues, Chiefs and Hurricanes, North Harbour, Counties Manukau and Wellington - and also had a stint in Wales with Cardiff Blues, for whom he played 10 matches.

He retired from the game in 2007, the year he was inducted into the International Rugby Hall of Fame. He also joined the IRB Hall of Fame four years later.

New Zealand prime minister John Key was quick to take to social media and pay tribute to Lomu, who was in the United Kingdom for the recent Rugby World Cup - which was won by the All Blacks.

Kay tweeted: “Deeply saddened to hear of Jonah Lomu’s unexpected passing this morning. The thoughts of the entire country are with his family.”

Others were quick to acknowledge the significant contribution of Lomu to the game.

Former New Zealand captain Sean Fitzpatrick took to Twitter to say: “Our thoughts are with the @JONAHTALILOMU family tonight. A very special person. @AllBlacks.”

Current All Blacks favourite Dan Carter tweeted: “I still can’t believe the sad news. Love & thoughts go out to Jonahs family #RIPJonah.”

Jonny Wilkinson, who kicked England to victory in the 2003 World Cup, said: “I am so, so devastated to hear of the passing away of @JONAHTALILOMU The greatest superstar and just a fabulous human being. Deeply saddened.”

Former Wales fly-half Jonathan Davies said: “Can’t believe that Jonah Lomu has passed away. Was with him and his wife and family for an evening last month. So sad, life is so cruel.

“RIP Jonah you were a true legend and a gentleman.You changed the game of rugby and will be sorely missed. My thoughts are with your family.”

Cardiff Blues tweeted about the man who played for them in 2005-06: “The All Black in Blue. Rugby’s first global superstar... a friend we will miss always #RIPJonah #legend #alwaysablue.”