Thorn’s cups runneth over

Brad Thorn has always been a ‘‘big dreamer’’ but even he is struggling to grasp the enormity of his sporting career after Leinster’s European Cup triumph in London.

The big man added the latest honour to his remarkable resume in Leinster’s 42-14 thrashing of Irish rivals Ulster in front of almost 82,000 spectators at Twickenham.

The 37-year-old became the first player to win a World Cup (2011), Super Rugby title with the Crusaders (2008) and a European Cup. He also became the oldest player to win the European Cup.

The multi-faceted Thorn also won four Australian rugby league titles with the Brisbane Broncos in 1996, 1997, 2000 and 2006.

With the All Blacks, for

Years ago I never dreamed that what happened in my NRL career would happen. Now I just don’t believe it again in union. Brad Thorn Leinster lock

whom he has won 59 caps, he played in three Tri-nationswinning sides in 2003, 2008 and 2010.

Then again, he has been the first to do many things.

‘‘It was a real privilege to be part of that,’’ Thorn said.

‘‘To be a European cham- pion as well as winning the [2011] World Cup is incredible. I would have just been happy with all my NRL stuff and do some cool stuff over there. But I have always been a big dreamer.

‘‘Years ago I never dreamed that what happened in my NRL career would happen. Now I just don’t believe it again in union.

‘‘To do and win all I have is amazing,’’ he said.

Thorn was only signed up on a short-term contract by Leinster in March because of an injury crisis.

Like most of his career, he came out a winner as Leinster collected the cup for a third time in four seasons.

Not that the former Brisbane Broncos and Crusaders star was ready to start discussing his retirement plans.

‘‘Most of all I love the camaraderie,’’ he said.

‘‘As a 6-year-old I used to get nervous before a game playing with my mates. Now, as a 37-year-old I still get nervous before a game with my mates. It’s so special.

‘‘It’s not so much about what’s going to happen next. It’s just about enjoying today and only the Lord knows what will happen in the future. We shall see how it works out.

‘‘Physically, I have always been lucky. I feel pretty good. Mentally, that is the last thing I am thinking about.’’

He has the chance to add another title next weekend.

Leinster will meet Ospreys in the PRO12 competition final in Dublin on Sunday.