The son of All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu has revealed that if he follows in his late father's footsteps, he would prefer to represent France.
Competition: Get a Chance to Watch the Lions in Australia
Dhyreille Jonah Lomu, who currently plays on the wing, was born in France during his Jonah's brief stint playing for Marseille, hence any eligibility discussions wouldn't be an issue.
Known as 'Frenchie' at school in New Zealand, the aspiring youngster has already began to impress at a number of age-grade tournaments in New Zealand.
Lomu's stint in France came towards the end of the his career, which also included a stint with the Cardiff Blues in Europe.
Tragically, Lomu died in November 2015.
Playing on the wing Lomu finished his international career with 63 caps and 37 tries. He is regarded as the first true global superstar of rugby and consequently had a huge impact on the game
His two sons, as well as playing rugby, are also very keen tennis players.
"To be the best tennis player in the world you should put in effort and always try hard,” Brayley said.
Only playing for three-and-a-half-years, the pair are reaching for the sky.
“My dream is to become a number one professional tennis player in the world,” Dhyreille added.
“Dad will always be the best and I thought to maybe give something else a try cause I’ll never be better than him,”
Jonah Lomu Facts:
- He weighed 120 kg and was 1.96 metres tall, but could run 100 metres in 10.8 seconds
- In 1996, McDonald’s New Zealand named a burger after Lomu
- He’s the only rugby player ever to feature on the front cover of TIME magazine
- According to the Telegraph, Leeds were ready to make a third bid to attract All Blacks giant Jonah Lomu to England in 2001
- He played 63 tests as an All Black, scoring 37 tries
- In 2001 he helped New Zealand win the Rugby World Cup Sevens.
NIGEL OWENS: MY TOP 5 CAPTAINS
Get ready for a surprising revelation from renowned rugby referee Nigel Owens, as he unveils his list of the top five captains he has officiated.
#5. Chris Robshaw (England)
The flanker is a former English rugby union player who captained the national team from 2012 to 2015.
Known for his exceptional work rate and leadership skills, Robshaw was a dynamic flanker who made a significant impact on the field. He enjoyed a successful club career with Harlequins, where he played for over a decade. Robshaw's dedication and commitment to the sport earned him numerous accolades and the respect of his peers.
Off the field, he is admired for his philanthropic efforts, using his platform to support various charitable causes.
Owens said: "Some people will be surprised at this one to start off. His misfortune was perhaps to be leading England during a difficult time, but he always gave everything for the cause, encouraging others to follow suit, and he was a nice guy off the pitch."
#4. Jean de Villiers (South Africa)
He is a retired South African rugby union player who made a lasting impact on the international stage.
As a versatile back, he showcased his skills and leadership abilities as the captain of the Springboks from 2012 to 2015.
De Villiers' playing career spanned over a decade, during which he exhibited exceptional athleticism and a powerful presence on the field.
He was widely respected for his tactical knowledge, unwavering commitment, and ability to inspire his teammates.
De Villiers remains an influential figure in the rugby world and continues to contribute to the sport through coaching and commentary.
Owens said: "He was not only a great rugby player but also a great leader and a great man. Whenever I came across him on the field, he impressed me."
Jean de Villiers Captain of South Africa leads his side out against England - Photo mandatory by-line: Gareth Davies/Pinnacle - Tel: +44(0)1363 881025 - Mobile:0797 1270 681 - VAT Reg No: 768 6958 48 - 15/11/2014 - SPORT - QBE Internationals - RUGBY UNION - England v South Africa - Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London, England
#3. Richie McCaw (New Zealand)
McCaw is a legendary New Zealand rugby union player widely regarded as one of the greatest openside flankers in the history of the game.
The flankers career was defined by his exceptional skills, relentless work rate, and unparalleled leadership abilities.
He captained the All Blacks to back-to-back Rugby World Cup victories in 2011 and 2015, solidifying his status as a true icon of the sport.
Known for his ability to win turnovers and dominate the breakdown, McCaw's impact on the game was immeasurable. Beyond his playing career, he continues to be an influential figure, inspiring future generations of rugby players.
Owens said: "He’s right up on any list of rugby’s greatest players.
"Maybe he will be at the top for many people.
"New Zealand won something like nine out of every 10 games in which he led them, but the mark of Richie McCaw was how he conducted himself when the All Blacks lost."
#2. Paul O'Connell & Brian O'Driscoll (Ireland)
O'Connell is a former Irish rugby union player known for his towering presence and exceptional leadership skills.
As a lock, he captained Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, leading them to memorable victories. O'Connell's fearless competitiveness and humility made him a respected figure in the rugby community.
Meanwhile, O'Driscoll is an iconic Irish rugby union player and one of the greatest centres in the game's history.
His exceptional skill set, speed, and agility made him a constant threat on the field. O'Driscoll captained both Ireland and the British and Irish Lions, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.
Owens said: "I’m classing this as a joint-ticket as whenever I seemed to ref Ireland in their day O’Driscoll was captain and O’Connell was vice-skipper.
"O’Driscoll actually used to tell me if there were issues with the forwards then I should chat to O’Connell.
I found them excellent to deal with."
#1. Thierry Dusautoir (France)
Dusautoir is a retired French rugby union player renowned for his incredible defensive skills and fearless tackling. As a flanker, he captained the French national team from 2009 to 2015 and was a key figure in their formidable defense.
The flankers physicality, tenacity, and ability to disrupt opponents' play made him a formidable force on the field. He earned numerous accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious World Rugby Player of the Year award in 2011.
Dusautoir's leadership and dedication to the sport have left a lasting legacy, inspiring aspiring rugby players around the world.
Owens said: "My choice as the best skipper I encountered may raise a few eyebrows, but what a captain Dusautoir was.
"He unfailingly put his body on the line throughout his career — recall the 38 tackles he made when France knocked the All Blacks out of the 2007 World Cup — led by example and understood the game very well."
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