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Love matters Lomu says playing in Wellington has extra benefits
Posted: Wednesday November 24, 1999 05:08 PM
WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) -- Rugby star Jonah Lomu admitted love had helped him decide on a two-year contract with Super 12 team Wellington. The former Auckland and Chiefs player will line up for his third Super 12 team in as many years in the hometown of girlfriend Teina Stace. Lomu said the relationship was a factor in his decision but added the major reason was to improve his rugby. "I'd be lying if Teina didn't have a part in it but it's a rugby decision about what will bring out the best in me," Lomu said Wednesday. Lomu said another factor prompting his decision to leave Auckland was the relaxed atmosphere offered by the capital. "I'll have a bit more privacy, it's a great place to relax and when I'm relaxed I play better," the 24-year-old wing said. Lomu and Stace have not yet decided where to live in Wellington but he joked, "A few people have dropped off photos of their houses." He was married to Tanya Lomu for two and half years but separated last year. Lomu, who joined the Chiefs from Auckland last year, will partner fellow All Blacks Christian Cullen and Tana Umaga in a lethal Wellington backline. "I'm not taking anything for granted, I'll have to be at my best,' Lomu said. Lomu was the top try scorer with eight at the World Cup which ended this month and rejected several major offers, including from English league and union clubs, to stay in New Zealand.
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