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Thorn has played 49 times for New Zealand. Barry Aldworth/Sports Inc/Press Association Images
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Leinster sign New Zealand World Cup winner Thorn

The province have announced the signing of the veteran international on a short-term deal.

LEINSTER HAVE COMPLETED the signing of World Cup-winning second row Brad Thorn, it has been announced.

The 37-year-old, who was part of New Zealand’s World Cup-winning squad, signs on a temporary loan from Japanese team Fukuoka Sanix Blues.

He has 49 caps for his country, helping them to win three Tri-Nations titles over the course of his career.

Thorn also made over 200 appearances for the Brisbane Broncos during his Rugby League career, and subsequently became only the second-ever player (after Bill Hardcastle) to represent Australia in rugby league and New Zealand in rugby union.

Speaking on the move, Leinster Coach Joe Schmidt:

“It’s great to have Brad to help us through until the end of the season.

“After Leo’s (Cullen) injury and Steven Sykes’ return to South Africa we were short of options at second row, but Brad’s arrival will supplement the likes of Damian Browne, Devin Toner and Mark Flanagan, as we look ahead to a demanding few months.”

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