All Blacks Brad Thorn, right and John Afoa, left, react. AP Photo/Peter Morrison
As a keen observer of both league and union, I can’t help but notice the career of Brad Thorn. He’s been centre stage singing the national anthem for the Kangaroos or the Maroons, thrilling the fans with the Haka for the All Blacks, lifting NRL premierships for the Broncos, or sharing in spoils of another title for the Crusaders.
Put simply, this dual rugby-code international has played in some great teams and played alongside some of the best that have crossed the white line – players like Dan Carter, Darren Lockyer, Richie McCaw, Andrew Johns, Glen Lazarus, Bradley Clyde, Laurie Daley and Steve Renouf.
Thorn debuted for the Brisbane Broncos back in 1994, the days when players were striving to get their hand on the Winfield Cup – that’s right, back when the in goals were splashed in red on grand final day. Unfortunately for Thorn, he didn’t play in the grand final that year, but it was only a matter of time.
In 200 first grade games for the Brisbane Broncos, Thorn went on to win four premierships, 1997 (SL), 1998, 2000 and 2006.
Thorn managed to represent the Maroons 14 times (three SL) and played eight times for the Kangaroos (five SL). His rugby league career stretched from 1994-00 and 2005-07.
So when Thorn decides to switch codes, where does he go? None other then the Canterbury Crusaders, the most successful team in Super Rugby history. Thorn played for the Crusaders 77 times and won two Super Rugby tournaments in 2002 and 2008.
As a current New Zealand All Black, Thorn has 50-plus caps to his name, and this fairytale is still going. He has won three Tri Nations trophies, 2003, 2008 and 2010. I’ve lost track with the number of Bledisloe titles he has won, but the one trophy Thorn that has eluded him up until now is the Webb Ellis cup.
Is it Thorn’s time to finally get his hands on Bill? Bill or no Bill, one thing is assured; post footy career, Thorn is going to be busy getting around to all the reunions.
Well done, Brad Thorn. Fascinating career.
Ray
Guest
In the forwars its McCaw, Thorn, Kaino and Mealamu who are the heart of that all blacks forwards.
allblackfan
Guest
Let's not forget he will be playing in Japan for two years after the RWC!! Longevity, thy name is Thorn!!
sheek
Guest
Quite often when I have argued (consistently) on The Roar, that the ABs will win the 2011 RWC, it isn't because of Dan Carter (now injured), or Richie McCaw (inspirational captain), or Sonny Bill Williams (extraordinary athlete), but Brad Thorn - legendary human being. To me, Thorn epitomises the heart & soul of the ABs. Because of him, more than any other player, is the overwhelming reason I believe the ABs will the 2011 RWC.
Rabby
Guest
Another good article Slugs. Too often the hard working men in the engine room do not get the same rewards as the backs. I think Thorn's long career is testament to both his off and on field work ethic and determination. Also, (which appears to be underrated these days) he appears to be a pretty decent bloke as shown by his comments post S15 final loss to the Reds: "so to see Queensland rugby so strong and with big crowds, exciting talent - there is a big part of me that appreciates that.'' He also gets a pretty big rap from Bennett in his autobiography and Bennet does not says nice things (or anything else for that matter) very often.
Sam Cupitt
Roar Guru
I was amazed when I actually saw his name in the All Blacks line-up the other week. I thought the guy was like 50. Craziness.
Woodsie
Guest
Great article Slugs... The only fact you left off is that he has done it all with the same haircut. A flat top no less. Brilliant.
Bobby
Guest
What a remarkable career Brad Thorne has had and can look back on. He has achieved more than many great players have achieved that have just played the one code. Not taking anything away from the guy but he has always played for the top sides in both codes the Bronos and the crusaders. I wonder how he would have gone if had of played for teams not so dominant. I am sure he still would have been a champion though.
Sluggers
Guest
96 Debut 97 Super League Premiership 98 NRL Premiership 99 00 NRL Premiership 01 02 Super Rugby Champions 03 Tri-Nations Champions, Bledisloe 04 Bledisloe 05 06 NRL Premiership 07 08 Super Rugby Champions, Tri-Nations Champions, Bledisloe 09 Bledisloe 10 Tri-Nations Champions, Bledisloe 11 Bledisloe, ……..
Patrick Angel
Roar Guru
"The most amazing thing about Thorn’s achievements is that he is a forward, very rarely do forwards make the transition." This is a big one, completely different game in the forwards. I think it will probably never happen again with league fowards becoming smaller and more mobile. I think they'll do the SBW switch and move into the backline.
Gary Russell-Sharam
Guest
Arguable one of the best crosscoders to have played both games. The most amazing thing about Thorn's achievements is that he is a forward, very rarely do forwards make the transition. He will go down in history as one of the greatest to have played both codes. A remarkable feat. He deserves all the accolades he gets.