Lomu receives career lifeline

Jonah Lomu has been thrown a career lifeline just as his comeback to top rugby appeared to have foundered.

Lomu announced on Wednesday his decision to sit out the New Zealand domestic season because of health complications caused by the treatment of his kidney illness.

He has recently been suffering from numbness in his feet, a result of increased bloodflow caused by his dialysis treatments three times a week.

His decision to withdraw from the Wellington provincial team for the remainder of New Zealand's national championship appeared to have seriously jeopardised his bid to regain an All Blacks jersey.

Manager Phil Kingsley-Jones said Lomu had been forced to accept his condition would not allow him to play again this season. He dismissed retirement suggestions and said Lomu was now focused on playing Super 12 rugby next season.

Lomu was given encouragement when Wellington Hurricanes Super 12 coach Colin Cooper said he was prepared to hold a place in next year's squad for Lomu's return.

Cooper said though Lomu had played only 40 minutes of rugby since March, his proven ability meant he had to be considered for selection.

"He's got such a proven record and he is someone you can't just not look at," Cooper said.

"We will be talking with Jonah and his medical staff to see where it progresses."

Cooper said Lomu would not be chosen solely on reputation.

"We will do what's best for the Hurricanes and all selections will be what's best for the team," he said.

Cooper, who will name his Hurricanes squad next month, said Lomu's selection depended on his re-signing with the New Zealand Rugby Union. His current contract expires in December.