Brad Thorn: Still going strong at 39

Leicester Tigers have confirmed the arrival of World Cup-winning former All Black second row Brad Thorn.

39-year-old New Zealander was referred to by Tigers director of rugby Richard Cockerill as “one of the great all-time rugby players the world has ever seen.” He is expected at the club at the end of September.

Thorn became the first player to win World Cup, Super Rugby and Heineken Cup titles and arrives from the Highlanders having previously represented the Crusaders and Leinster.

“He is a very driven individual,” Cockerill told the Leicester Mercury.

“He wants to play in the Premiership and he wants to win the Premiership.”

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“He will turn 40 during the season but if anyone questions his age or commitment, you wait until you meet him.”

Thorn played 59 Tests for the All Blacks but started his career in Rugby League in Australia, for whom he played 12 games in the 13-man code.

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Corey Flynn arrived at Toulouse.

After 12 years with the Crusaders, the 33-year-old has joined the French giants, where he will battle with youngsters Cyril Baille and Christopher Tolofua for game time.

Toulouse kicked off their season on Saturday with an unconvincing win at home to Oyonnax, and are under pressure after two seasons without a trophy.

However Flynn, whose Crusaders side also have recent experience of missing out on trophies, can’t wait to help France’s most successful club get back to the summit.

“I arrived on Sunday evening. I’ve had two weeks off since the Super Rugby final and my body is feeling good. I’m very excited about this new adventure that awaits,” he told Rugbyrama.

“The weather is magnificent, which makes a change from New Zealand. I’d spoken to Hosea Gear and Luke McAlister [before signing] and they were very complimentary about Toulouse. Their views made a big difference when it came to signing here.”

“I’m impatient to start now. Toulouse is known around the world, they are one of the best teams in France and I’m very proud to be part of this club.”

“Toulouse is a team with a lot of character. Helping them get back to where they belong with some displays that reach their potential is a nice challenge for me.”

“Toulon are a great team who managed the double last season, but we started the season well with a win over Oyonnax, even if it was difficult. It would be good to be able to keep going with a win on Friday against Castres.”