Jonah Lomus Cardiff Blues debut lasted 60 minutes and proved to be a successful return to top flight rugby as his new team recorded a bonus point win in Italy and raised hopes of a Heineken Cup quarter final place.
The global superstar had attracted quite a crowd at the tiny Centro Sportivo San Michelle ground and even half a page in the Italian newspaper and football mad Gazzetta dello Sport.
Lomu hopes the comeback will culminate in a return to the New Zealand team in time for the World Cup in 2007.
It was just great to be out there again, said Lomu. It was always going to be tough but Im just glad to have come through the 60 minutes without any injuries.
It wasnt a premeditated move to come off after an hour but the coaches had their plans and they have to stick to them. I was just pleased to be out there at all.
I was fine the night before but I did get a bit nervous five minutes before kick-off. It was almost a surreal experience being back on the field after everything that I have gone through over the last few months. But I really enjoyed it.
Physically I feel fine. I actually enjoy taking the knocks and being involved in a tough rugby game. It was only my first game back and Im taking things steps by step. The most important thing is that we won the game. Were a team and thats what Im part of so the most important thing is that the team does well not just me.