Lomu laces up for big test

Jonah Lomu is set to make another remarkable return to rugby - in Wellington's pre-season match against Taranaki on Saturday.

He was named in Wellington's NPC squad yesterday and coach John Plumtree indicated the wing could be given an early chance to chase his World Cup dream if there was no risk.

"He will be in the mix. I'm not big on having Jonah off the bench personally. He's the type that plays big games when he gets straight into it."

It will be Lomu's first game in four months. He pulled out of rugby in March during the Super 12 when his kidney problems resurfaced, and soon after started dialysis twice a week in Auckland.

He returned to training with the Wellington team yesterday.

"Jonah is adamant he wants to play this season. Whether he is ready now or a bit later is still not clear, and he has some work to do on his fitness," Plumtree said.

"Then again, I don't think that has ever been Jonah's forte as a player."

Plumtree said he needed 24 hours to weigh up Lomu's condition and the possible risks of bringing him back too soon in the clash against Taranaki at Porirua.

The time would also allow Lomu to see if there were any side-effects to his training.

Lomu missed rugby for nearly 12 months a few years ago when he was diagnosed with a rare kidney disorder, nephrotic syndrome, but made a successful comeback to test rugby.

However, requiring dialysis now and awaiting a kidney transplant, it was thought his playing days were over.

Looking relaxed, Lomu joked with old friends and introduced himself to players he was meeting for the first time yesterday.

He did not drop the ball and went through backline moves from his trademark left wing.

But there were tell-tale signs Lomu was testing the waters. His right arm was heavily bandaged to cover the puncture wounds for his dialysis.

He appeared to avoid more physical activities, but laboured through a gruelling set of 15 sprints, obviously suffering from the heavy lungs and legs of a player who has not played for months.

He was last in each, but never gave in or stopped trying.

Plumtree said he was moved by the giant winger's bid to return to the All Blacks.

"I want to do everything I can to get Jonah up to speed and to ensure he reaches the goals he's set for himself."

- NZPA