Former New Zealand winger Jonah Lomu enjoyed a winning return to rugby on his debut for French side Marseille.
Former All Black returns to rugby with French side
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."
