Successes and failures

So who has done well in the shift from union to league? Some have blossomed while others not so much.

Successes

Brad Thorn

Came over from the Brisbane Broncos and was quickly an All Black but perhaps it was too soon. Went back to the Broncos before returning to the 15man game in 2008, supposedly for only a short period. But he blossomed in the All Blacks’ middle row and won a World Cup in 2011.

Sonny Bill Williams

Had plenty of haters but won two World Cups, a Super Rugby title and did some amazing things on the field.

Jason Robinson

Started off playing for Wigan at a young age and then went on to win everything one can in the 13man game. Went to union in 2001 and won the World Cup two years later. Played for England in the World Cup final in 2007 and then more or less retired.

Failures

Benji Marshall

It was the biggest show in town when John Kirwan signed Benji Marshall to play rugby for the Blues. Made his competitive debut at Forsyth Barr Stadium in a losing effort against the Highlanders in 2014. It all turned to custard and he was gone by midApril.

Sam Burgess

Left Souths to try to play for England in the World Cup in 2015 in England. That went to script but not the part where the home team did not get out of pool play.

Quickly came back to Souths.

Clinton Toppi

An impressive centre for the Warriors in its best period, Toppi then went to England to play league before deciding to sign to play rugby in Bay of Plenty. Lasted one year and he never played for the Steamers.