Cardiff Blues will hold a minute's applause in tribute to their former player Jonah Lomu at Thursday's European Challenge Cup home clash with Harlequins.

Former New Zealand wing Lomu, who played 10 times for Cardiff after joining them in 2005, died on Wednesday at the age of 40.

The Welsh outfit announced on their website on Wednesday morning that a tribute to Lomu would be taking place at Cardiff Arms Park just before the start of the Harlequins match.

And an update on Wednesday afternoon on their official Twitter feed said: "We can confirm that a minute's applause will take place prior to kick-off tomorrow night. Please join us as we remember a legend #RIPJonah

"Fans who wish to bring flowers can place them at the Clubhouse end of the South Terrace by the murial (sic) #RIPJonah"

In the earlier statement on their website, Cardiff expressed their "shock and sadness" at the news of Lomu's death.

They added of the man who scored 37 tries in 63 international Test matches and is regarded as one of the All Blacks' greatest ever players: "Jonah was a true icon and legend of our game.

"He was the first global rugby superstar who captured the imagination of fans across the world and inspired so many to take up our sport.

"Jonah arrived to play for Cardiff Blues in 2005. He went onto make 10 appearances, scoring one try, and thousands came to watch him in action.

"On the field he was a game changer, a destructive and supremely talented winger who has given us so many memories that all rugby fans will always cherish.

"Away from the action he was a kind, humble and caring family man who made many friends during his time with us.

"Jonah was loved by his many fans both in our region and around the world.

"Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Jonah's family and friends at this time."