/ 30 April 2000

LOMU SUSPENDED FOR TWO GAMES

RUGBY union’s biggest drawcard, New Zealand winger Jonah Lomu, was suspended on Sunday for two matches after being found guilty of a dangerous tackle which left his opponent dazed and groggy. The giant All Black winger was stood down until May 12 — forcing him out of the final two rounds of the Super 12 — after spearing New South Wales centre Nathan Grey into the ground during Saturday’s match at the Sydney Football Stadium. Grey was clearly shaken by the incident, needing medical attention before he was able to take any further part in the match. Lomu was given a yellow card and sent to the sin-bin for his part. Shortly after he returned to the field, he was permanently sent off for a professional foul. He was ordered to attend a southern hemisphere judiciary committee in Sydney on Sunday — missing the Wellington Hurricanes’ early morning departure to South Africa — where he was found guilty of dangerous play. Lomu said he would consider lodging an appeal even though he would still be eligible for the Super 12 semifinals if the Hurricanes make the playoffs. ”I am a disappointed in my actions and what happened,” Lomu said.