Lomu's stint at Cardiff over after ankle break

Jonah Lomu has played his last game for Cardiff Blues after breaking his leg in the Celtic League game against the Borders.

The Welsh region revealed the New Zealander’s spell with the Blues is over and he will miss the last four games of the season after an orthopaedic surgeon confirmed the right ankle break today.

It is a setback for 30-year-old Lomu, who wanted to use his seven-month stay with the Blues as a launch pad to revive his international career after three years out with kidney problems.

“His injury against Border Reivers last Saturday was a cruel blow, especially given he was playing so well in what was his 10th game for the Blues this season,” said Blues chief executive Robert Norster.

“It was evident on Saturday how much progress Jonah has continued to make over the past six months and it’s sad that he will not play again this season for Cardiff Blues.

“He will remain with us until the end of the season and I’m sure I speak on behalf of everyone involved with the Blues, and indeed Wales, in thanking him for his significant contribution to date.

“Since his arrival in mid-November, we have all been hugely impressed with the sheer determination Jonah has shown to get back to playing top level rugby.”

His wife and manager Fiona Lomu said the legendary winger would be out of action for about six weeks before resuming training back in New Zealand with his club side North Harbour.

“Specialists advised today Jonah will be out of action for about six weeks,” she confirmed.

“He hopes to begin light training again after that. Obviously Jonah is very disappointed. He has worked so hard to get his fitness and his game back during his time in Wales – this is a setback for him but injuries like this happen all the time in rugby.

“Other than the ankle he is in excellent health and will be focused on getting right and preparing himself for the NPC season.”