The former New Zealand skipper's professional career began in 1997, and he made the All Blacks in 1999.

As captain, Thorne led the All Blacks to a Tri-Nations title and two Bledisloe Cup victories against Australia.

He has a huge workrate and is often called the "clean-up" man, working in close quarters and making tackle after tackle.

Dropped following the 2003 Rugby World Cup, Thorne was a late addition to the All Blacks 2004 end-of-year tour party, as cover for the injured Jono Gibbes.

He is also an expert line-out jumper and dogged tackler.