All Black legend Lomu was broke before death

WELLINGTON: All Black Jonah Lomu may have been one of the biggest names in rugby union but he was nearly broke when he died, the organisers of a trust set up to support his young sons said Tuesday.

Lomu’s sudden death last month at the age of 40, following a years-long battle with a rare kidney disorder, brought outpourings of sympathy from around the world, not only from sports personalities but also heads of state and Hollywood stars.

But it has emerged the commercially in-demand personality had few financial assets.

In response, New Zealand Rugby Players Association chief executive Rob Nichol said the Jonah Lomu Legacy Trust had been established by business people and friends of the hulking winger to support his children Dhyreille, six, and Brayley, five.

Nichol told Radio Newstalkzb that Lomu’s wealth from a stellar career did not match people’s expectations and he may have been a victim of his own generosity where he often helped others at the expense of his own family.