All Black Jonah Lomu has reportedly turned down Stg£50,000 to play two matches for Bristol in the Allied Dunbar Premiership.

Bristol, who failed to tempt Lomu with a lucrative offer following World Cup 99, wanted rugby union's biggest name for Christmas games against Saracens and London Irish.

But Lomu has again rejected their advances, and flew home to New Zealand yesterday after attending Sunday's BBC Sports Personality of the Century in London.

Bristol, funded by millionaire club chairman Malcolm Pearce, had apparently lined up the £50,000 deal after insisting their Memorial Stadium door was always open. Lomu would have featured in Bristol's home fixture with Saracens on December 27th and at London Irish two days later, earning more than £300 per minute.

Lomu, who will play for Wellington Hurricanes when the Super 12 tournament kicks off in February, intends enjoying a holiday instead.