 Thorne has played 41 Tests for the All Blacks |
Former All Black captain Reuben Thorne will join the New Zealand squad as cover for injured forward Jono Gibbes for Saturday's game with Italy in Rome. The 29-year-old Thorne has not played for the national side since skippering New Zealand at the 2003 World Cup.
Gibbes suffered a calf muscle tear during scrum training on Tuesday.
Thorne, who was a permanent fixture before Graham Henry took over as New Zealand coach, led the All Blacks in 22 of his 41 tests.
Coach Graham Henry said: "Reuben has come to replace Jono, who is doubtful for the rest of the tour.
"He is a lock replacement - we only have three fit locks and it is crucial we get more cover.
"We have chosen him because he is a very experienced player and has played lock quite a bit and he will fit into the squad easily."
MMIX
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