Jonah Lomu’s teenage son declared for Six Nations team, snubs All Blacks

Dhyreille Jonah Lomu, who plays on the wing just like his iconic father, has revealed his desire to one day wear the colours of France. Born in France during Jonah Lomu's spell with Marseille, the youngster already qualifies for Les Bleus, opening the door to a potential international future away from New Zealand.

Nicknamed ‘Frenchie’ at school in New Zealand, Dhyreille is already turning heads at age-grade tournaments and is showing early signs of serious talent.

Jonah’s time in France came towards the end of his glittering career, which also included a spell at Cardiff Blues. Tragically, the global rugby superstar passed away in 2015.

Jonah finished with 63 caps and 37 tries for New Zealand – and is still widely regarded as the game’s first global megastar.

But while Jonah lit up the rugby field, his sons Brayley, 15, and Dhyreille, 14, are carving their own path – with a tennis ball, not a rugby one.

Their dream of becoming professional athletes led to a switch three years ago from traditional schooling to Te Kura, New Zealand’s correspondence school, so they could maximise their training time.

“Professional sport is hard, but playing tennis is our life. I love all kinds of exercise, and doing online school means we can fit in a lot more training,” says Dhyreille, who strongly resembles his famous dad. “Depending on when we can get court time, I can be playing tennis from 9am until about 7.30pm.”

Their mum Nadene, and grandfather Mervyn, play a huge role in their development – with Mervyn often coaching and shuttling the boys across Auckland for court time.

“The love within our family is pretty special,” says Nadene. “Dad and the boys cruise and gym together. I’m very grateful to have parents who love me.”

The brothers are humble and well-mannered – quick to help, respectful, and focused. Brayley is the quieter of the two, but admits: