Lomu amazed medical experts by returning to action so quickly Lomu targets World Cup

Lomu, who only recently returned to action after undergoing dialysis because of a serious kidney illness, has not been selected by Wellington for their NPC game against Waikato on Friday.

The giant 28-year-old wing has been unable to train for the past two weeks because of sore calf muscles.

And with Mitchell set to announce his 30-man All Black squad for the World Cup on Monday, 25 August, it looks as though time has run out for Lomu to convince the New Zealand coach that he is match fit.

The giant wing has played only half of a non-championship match for Wellington since his dialysis began in June and he last played in the southern hemisphere's premier club tournament, the Super 12, back in March.

Lomu, who is the world's best-known and highest-paid rugby player, battled his degenerative illness for six years before it peaked in June.

Extreme tiredness

Renal specialists and other medical experts were divided over whether his need for regular dialysis would mean the end of a stellar career.

Most believed the symptoms of kidney illness, which include extreme tiredness, would prevent a return to the rugby field.

Lomu remained adamant he would overcome the illness to play again for New Zealand, despite appeals from his family to put his health before his career.

Doctors who had treated the ailing Lomu expressed surprise when, after barely eight weeks of dialysis, he felt well enough to play for Wellington against Taranaki two weeks ago.

He took only a small part in that match and has been unable to train since because of calf soreness, attributed to his kidney disorder.

Wellington sought further information on his medical condition before deciding Lomu should be omitted from last Saturday's championship match against Southland.