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Watching the Bledisloe Cup on Saturday I couldn’t help but admire the work of Brad Thorn. At age 34 he is still representing the All Blacks and playing with the enthusiasm and ferocity of a 24 year old.
How this warrior keeps performing at the elite level in two different codes is just amazing.
He made his name first as a rugby league second rower for the Broncos, Queensland and the Kangaroos – winning silverware with all three teams.
Having conquered League he fulfilled his dream as a kid to represent the All Blacks.
This was a gutsy move on so many levels. He chased his dream and against all odds was selected in the mighty All Blacks team via the Canterbury Crusaders football factory.
Having ticked that box he decided he hadn’t got League out of his system and returned to the Broncos winning a fourth NRL Premiership in 2006.
Finally he was done with League and needed to scratch his Union itch one last time.
His return to the Crusaders in 2008 netted him his first Super 14 title, thus becoming the first player to win an NRL Premiership and Super 14 title.
He went on to play for the All Blacks in 2008 and again is a feature this year.
Thorn joins Bill Hardcastle as the only person to represent the Kangaroos and All Blacks.
In the modern day, Brad Thorn is a sporting freak.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.