Former All Black Brad Thorn is coming out of retirement.

Former All Black lock Brad Thorn is set to lace up the boots and come out of retirement for Queensland Country in the Australian national championship.

The 41-year-old dual international, who retired from professional rugby last year after playing 460 rugby and league games in a career spanning more than two decades, will both play and help coach the Queensland side.

With test lock Rob Simmons expected to miss the bulk of the tournament because of international duty, Thorn will bring plenty of experience to the side.

Thorn played 59 test matches for the All Blacks and helped them win the World Cup in New Zealand in 2011.

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He last played rugby in the country in 2014, but had an injury ravaged season for the Highlanders.

The former Brisbane Bronco and Queensland league representative then played rugby for Leicester until retiring.

In an interview with foxsports.com.au earlier this year, Thorn said he only retired because he thought that's what 40-year-olds do.

"I didn't actually retire because of my body," Thorn said.

"I retired because it seemed like I should — I turned 40. If you had of put the number 32 next to my name I would have signed another two-year contract.

"My body feels good. And I've had a few contacts from clubs about playing overseas, and I sort of say to them 'that would be fun' because I just love playing, but this is my focus now and it's good to have the family back here, and it's sort of the long-term plan and not popping around everywhere."

Queensland's first game in the national championship is against the Canberra Vikings on August 27.