All Blacks Jonah Lomu dies at age 40

Rugby great Jonah Lomu, the game’s first global superstar whose speed and power terrorised opponents, died unexpectedly at age 40.

Lomu had for decades battled the kidney disease that ended his playing career, but close acquaintances said his death still came as a shock.

“It was totally unexpected, Jonah and his family arrived back from the UK last night and he suddenly died this morning,” Mayhew told TV3.

Mayhew, a former medic with the All Blacks, revealed Lomu’s family were “going through a terrible time” before he broke down in tears.

NZR chief executive Steve Tew said: ” Jonah was a legend of our game and loved by his many fans both here and around the world.”

New Zealand Prime Minister John Key also paid tribute, saying: “The thoughts of the entire country are with his family.”

“Hewas a game changer whenever he stepped onto the field,” he added.

Lomu played 63 Tests on the wing for New Zealand from 1995 to 2002, scoring 37 tries.

He rose to stardom at the 1995 Rugby World Cup, creating a new template for wingers which combined the speed of a backline player with the raw power of a forward.

This great rugby giant will be greatly missed.