"All Blacks legend Jonah Lomu has passed away in Auckland today at the age of 40," the New Zealand Herald reported this afternoon.
"Former All Blacks doctor John Mayhew confirmed Lomu had died unexpectedly this morning."
Read more at the New Zealand Herald.
Mr Lomu was baptised a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 2012.
He and his wife, Nadene, spoke to members of the Church and others about their faith at a number of devotional meetings in Auckland over the last three years.
"Our hearts are saddened to learn of Jonah’s sudden passing," said Pacific Area President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Elder Kevin W. Pearson.
"Many people know him as one of the greatest players in world rugby history—but, more importantly, he was an amazing companion to his wife, Nadene; a loving father to his children; and a dear friend to those in his Latter-day Saint congregation, and to many others.
"Our heartfelt condolences go out to Jonah’s family and friends. This is hard for many of us to deal with, but we believe that life continues beyond the grave and that families can be together forever through Jesus Christ and His atoning sacrifice.”