Big Brad Thorn played an enforcer role for the All Blacks - here are some highlights from his time in the black jersey.

World Cup winning All Black Brad Thorn has confirmed his retirement from rugby, declaring it's "mission accomplished".

"My goal was to play top-level rugby at 40 and to play well, and I've done that," he told the BBC, announcing his current stint with Leicester in the English Premiership would be his last.

"I've been part of all these teams and it's been awesome, but I just think maybe I should do something else."

Fairfax NZ Former All Blacks lock Brad Thorn.

A league star who won multiple NRL titles with the Brisbane Broncos, played State of Origin for Queensland and tests for Australia's Kangaroos, Thorn has been a code-hop success, playing 59 tests for the All Blacks, highlighted by the 2011 World Cup triumph.

A Super Rugby winner with the Crusaders, he took his winning ways to Europe, claiming the Heineken Cup with Leinster and has kept his reputation intact at Leicester where his professionalism and work rate have earned continued praise.

He even became the oldest captain in Leicester's history earlier this season.

Getty Images Brad Thorn in Leicester Tigers colours in November 2014.

"I had a few niggles, but otherwise I've been really pleased with how I've played here and my body feels really good," he said.

"But it's just got to a stage where mainly I'm just playing here because I want to play."

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Drawing the curtain on a 22-year career at the top of both codes hasn't come easy.

"The hard part about discussing the 'R Word' is that my body is not broken. I am really enjoying my rugby and feel like I am really contributing. So it's not easy. When your body is broken and you are not performing, it must be easier," he told the Leicester Mercury.

Thorn has said that he wants to take his family back to Brisbane and raise his children there.

And with that will come another chance for an odd game of rugby. He's motivated to play alongside his three young lads at some stage.

"I only said I would retire professionally," he emphasised.

"I will always have a pair of boots and a mouth-guard in my car.

"I will always be up for a game somewhere and I will always train, too. I love my sport and will stay fit. I love the gym. I hope I can stay fit for the rest of my life.

"And I will play at least three more games anyway because I have told my three boys that I will play a game with each one of them.

"It may only be third grade, but I just want to play with them. I play because I love this sport to death and that will never change."