Lomu denies backing Japan for World Cup

Jonah Lomu is contracted to North Harbour. File picture

Jonah Lomu has refuted suggestions he has backed Japan's bid to host the 2011 rugby World Cup.

The former legendary All Blacks wing was quoted by reputable newspaper the South China Morning Post (SCMP) today as saying: "Everyone always talks about the best things in terms of growing the game, and in this regard I think it is time for the World Cup to come to Japan and Asia."

Tonight the 63-test veteran released a short statement rejecting any notion he was behind Japan's bid.

"I want to be clear to New Zealanders that I have not put my support behind Japan's bid, nor have I ever been asked to," he said.

"I am 100 per cent behind New Zealand. I feel a huge loyalty to this country. It's the country I live in and love."

The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) are in a tight three-way battle with Japan and South Africa to secure the hosting rights, with the successful bid announced on November 17.

An NZRU spokesman said he would not respond to Lomu's comments.

Lomu, arguably the game's most recognisable figure before a debilitating kidney disease ended his test career in 2002, could have damaged his home union as NZRU chief executive Chris Moller and chairman Jock Hobbs seek to gather support from the International Rugby Board members.

Lomu is contracted to the NZRU through the North Harbour union.

But he was sidelined from this year's NPC after suffering a shoulder injury in his comeback match after recovering from a kidney transplant.

Lomu earlier told TV One news today that he had been misquoted by the newspaper.

New Zealand last held the World Cup in 1987 -- the inaugural tournament -- and the NZRU have poured substantial time and money into what it believes could be the last chance for New Zealand to host the tournament.

- NZPA