Rugby:Leinster have confirmed the signing of New Zealand's World Cup winning secondrow Brad Thorn until the end of the season. Thorn (37) has signed a three-month deal with the Heineken Cup champions having arrived in Dublin this week.
“It’s great to have Brad to help us through until the end of the season,” said Leinster coach Joe Schmidt this afternoon. “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.
“Obviously Brad won’t have a lot of time to find his feet, but I know the quality he brings and how keen he is to make a contribution both on and off the field.”
Skyes returned home to South Africa after an injury-cursed spell with Leinster last month and with Leo Cullen yet to return from an Achilles’ operation Leinster have been operating with just three recognised secondrows.
The arrival of Thorn, who won 49 caps with the All Blacks having previously represented Australia in rugby league, will provide a huge boost to the province as they seek to retain the Heineken Cup. Leinster unbeaten in 19 games in all competitions, also sit at the top of the Pro12 standings.
