Stars out for Lomu's comeback [1]
Monday, January 10, 2005 - 14:30. Updated on Thursday, May 8, 2014 - 15:43.
Auckland, New Zealand
The first week of June has been earmarked for Jonah Lomu's comeback rugby match at Twickenham against a Martin Johnson-led northern hemisphere XV.
British newspapers reported that Lomu will lead a southern hemisphere invitational team in an evening extravaganza on June 4 after the first day of the London IRB Sevens tournament.
The likely date also appears to rule Johnson, England's World Cup-winning captain, out of the British Lions tour as it conflicts with the opener against the Bay of Plenty in Rotorua. Despite Lomu's presence, the Twickenham game is Johnson's testimonial match.
A Lomu comeback in England would generate huge interest but whether the former All Black superstar wing can actually play will depend on his recovery from his kidney transplant last July.
The two invitational teams will not feature current All Blacks or selected Lions players but formidable line-ups are still likely.
Europe-based former All Blacks who are likely to join Lomu include Kees Meeuws, Taine Randell, Craig Dowd, Andrew Blowers and Christian Cullen, plus Aussies such as Matthew Burke and Owen Finegan.
There is also likely to be the odd ex-Springbok.
Lomu's great friend and ex-All Black Eric Rush could also be a starter given the link with the London sevens tournament, although it is unlikely any current sevens players would be considered.
Johnson's team is likely to feature Frenchmen and unwanted Lions such as Neil Back and Matthew Dawson.
- The Sunday Star-Times, New Zealand