Lomu makes playing comeback

Former All Black returns to rugby with French side

By Rachel Griffiths   Last updated: 23rd November 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Lomu makes playing comeback

Lomu: Made comeback in France

This was the first match, I was not expecting a miracle

Jonah Luma
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Former New Zealand winger Jonah Lomu made a much-anticipated comeback to rugby with French side Marseille on Sunday.

The 34-year-old, who signed a two-year contract with the third-division side, featured at centre in the 63-18 victory over Montmelian.

Lomu, who failed to score during the clash that was watched by a 2,500 strong crowd, admitted the language barrier had caused him some problems.

"It was a little difficult to understand my team-mates who were talking very fast in French," said Lomu.

"I asked them to speak a little less quickly. I have to gain in confidence, and to communicate better with them. I did feel a bit lost on the pitch at times."

Health issues

After playing 63 Tests for the All Blacks, Lomu was forced to cut his international career short after being diagnosed with a rare kidney problem, for which he eventually required a transplant in 2004.

The winger attempted an initial comeback in 2005 with Cardiff but retired from rugby in 2007 following a stint at New Zealand club North Harbour.

"This was the first match, I was not expecting a miracle," added Lomu. "My welcome was extraordinary, as much from the public as from my team-mates.

"All the guys played really well. Everything was really easy for me, all I had to do was to follow them around the pitch."

Regular Season 2009/10 Win Outright: Cardiff 66/1