Jonah Lomu's 1995 World Cup Performance
The freight train in ballet shoes who scored four tries in the 1995 World Cup semi-final against England.
Jonah Tali Lomu (12 May 1975 – 18 November 2015) was a New Zealand professional rugby union player. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest and most influential players in the history of the sport, and as one of the most talented sportsmen of all time. Lomu is widely considered to have been the first true global superstar of rugby, and consequently had a huge impact on the game. For his fast and effortless style of play, Lomu was nicknamed the "freight train in ballet shoes", and was celebrated for his ability to shrug off tackles from multiple opponents at once.
Quick Facts
- Position
- Wing
- Notable match
- Semi-final vs England
Lore & Background
Born in Pukekohe to Tongan immigrants from Haʻapai, Lomu grew up between rural Tonga and South Auckland. Attending Wesley College, he excelled in athletics and both rugby codes before pursuing a professional career. He became the youngest ever All Black when he played his first international in 1994 at the age of 19 years and 45 days. He was acknowledged as the top player at the 1995 World Cup for his 4-try performance in the semi-final against England. He shares with South African Bryan Habana the Rugby World Cup all-time try scoring record of 15, which he accumulated in only two tournaments.
Reader's Guide
At the 1995 World Cup, Lomu scored seven tries in five matches. In the semi-final against England at Newlands, he scored four tries. The first try in that match occurred after Lomu received a pass behind him, beat two defenders and then, after a stumble, ran straight over the top of Mike Catt. This caused one New Zealand commentator, Keith Quinn, to gasp. After the game, England captain Will Carling said: "He is a freak and the sooner he goes away the better." His first score was voted the try of the tournament.
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Elsewhere in New Zealand All Blacks
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