Lomu expected to make code switch decision this weekend

Jonah Lomu

SYDNEY - Jonah Lomu is expected to make a decision this weekend about whether he will accept an offer to play rugby league in Australia next season.

Lomu is considering switching codes after being offered a contract with the NRL's newest franchise, the Gold Coast Titans.

Lomu, who was once one of the most feared players in rugby before being struck down by a debilitating kidney illness, had launched a comeback with the intention of playing for the All Blacks at next year's World Cup.

But the 31-year-old started looking at new options after conceding his dream of playing at the World Cup was over when he failed to land a contract in next year's Super 14.

Lomu's possible move to rugby league has been criticised because of the potential risk to his health while there is widespread scepticism in Australia about whether he will commit to the move or the speculation is a publicity stunt.

Lomu launched his comeback in 2005 after fighting a debilitating kidney illness in the hope of crowning his career with a World Cup victory but despite showing some encouraging signs, he was unable to regain his old form as a series of injuries restricted his appearances and left him unwanted by NZ's five Super 14 teams.

- REUTERS