Brad Thorn

Brad Thorn. Photo / Getty Images

Who tells the All Blacks, "Thanks, but no thanks"? Brad Thorn, that's who.

And who would argue with him? A tough man with a fearsome work ethic, Thorn has a reputation for being the enforcer in the All Blacks pack.

The Kiwi-born forward first made a name for himself in league with the Brisbane Broncos in the NRL and the Kangaroos at test level.

Seven seasons and three premiership titles later, Thorn switched to rugby, making his Super rugby and provincial debut in New Zealand in 2001.

He was first selected for the All Blacks at the end of 2001 but famously turned it down, uncertain over his commitment to the 15-man game.

Thorn took the following year off from both codes to decide on his sporting future and rugby won out, the hardman returning to the rugby field in 2003.

After a stand-out season with the Crusaders, Thorn was again selected for the All Blacks in 2003, making his debut against Wales in Hamilton to become a dual international.

He played in the World Cup that year, scoring the All Blacks' first try of the tournament.

After a second stint in league from 2005-2007, Thorn returned to the All Blacks in 2008 as an elder statesman and has been a mainstay in the second row ever since, playing 35 tests since his return to the code.

In 2011, he continues to defy time, playing in 14 matches for the Crusaders and being one of the form locks of the Super 15 competition.

* Position: Lock

* Tests: 51

* Born: February 3, 1975, in Mosgiel

* Stats: 1.96m, 116kg

* Teams: Canterbury and Crusaders