Lomu sidelined with broken ankle

April 19, 2006

BBC reports:

Jonah Lomu has played his last game for Cardiff Blues after breaking his ankle in the Celtic League win over Borders.

The ex-New Zealand wing arrived at the Arms Park in September on a seven-month deal that ran until the end of May.

But the 30-year-old will miss the Blues' last four games of the season and now faces further rehabilitation.

Lomu's manager and wife, Fiona, said: "Specialists advised that Jonah will be out of action for about six weeks. He then hopes to begin light training."

Lomu has spent the season in Wales trying to resurrect his professional career following serious kidney problems and then shoulder surgery.

"Obviously Jonah is very disappointed. He has worked so hard to get his fitness and his game back during his time in Wales," Fiona Lomu added.

"This is a set-back for him but injuries like this happen all the time in rugby. Other than the ankle he's in excellent health and will be focused on getting right and preparing himself for the NPC season."

Lomu will return to play for North Harbour in the NPC after the Blues' season finishes, but will also be forced to miss part of the New Zealand domestic season as he recovers.

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