Thorn re-signs with NZRU

Crusaders lock Brad Thorn has re-signed with the New Zealand Rugby Union for 2008 and 2009.

The 33-year-old returned to New Zealand last year after playing rugby league in Australia, and rejoined the Crusaders for this year's Super 14 campaign.

NZRU General Manager of Professional Rugby Neil Sorensen welcomed Thorn's decision.

"Brad made a successful transition back into a team he last played for nearly four years ago which shows the character of the man. It is fantastic that he is committed to playing rugby in New Zealand until next year," Sorensen said.

Thorn played 12 Tests for the All Blacks in 2003 and appeared in two Super 14 finals with the Crusaders in 2003 and 2004.

He was also part of the Canterbury team that won the Air New Zealand NPC Division One title in 2004.