Thorne returns to All Blacks

Reuben Thorne is a surprise inclusion in the Tri-Nations squad.

Former captain Reuben Thorne has been named in the All Blacks rugby squad for the Tri-Nations in a shock selection announced today.

Thorne's inclusion ahead of Troy Flavell was the major surprise in the 30-man group named to contest the first three tests of the competition, starting against Australia at Christchurch on July 8.

Thorne, 31, played the last of his 41 tests in the playoff for third at the 2003 World Cup. That was also his 22nd test as captain.

He played against the Barbarians at Twickenham a year later when called in as an injury replacement on the All Blacks' tour of Europe.

His chances of future selection appeared to be jeopardised last month when he was named captain of the Junior All Blacks but withdrew to undertake a "recovery and reconditioning programme".

Coach Graham Henry insisted then that Thorne remained in the frame and today said his selection was warranted.

"Reuben is a proven performer. We have looked at other candidates in the last three tests, none of whom have played to Reuben's form in the Super 14," Henry said.

"Hopefully, there is a glimpse of the future in those selections but, for now, Reuben's form is the benchmark."

He said Thorne would be regarded as a blindside flanker.

Flavell is expected to see a surgeon to re-examine a shoulder tear injury that the lock/flanker has carried through the first part of the international season.

With Flavell's omission, the selectors have boosted the locking stocks by retaining Greg Rawlinson from the 39-strong squad used for tests against Ireland and Argentina.

The mix of the loose forwards has been reduced, with a regular squad member of recent seasons, Mose Tuiali'i, omitted, along with young flanker Jerome Kaino.

The selectors have named three halfbacks and three hookers to provide extra cover in those specialist positions.

The most notable backline omissions are centre Casey Laulala and second five-eighth Sam Tuitupou.

Players not considered for selection due to injury were backs Nick Evans, Sitiveni Sivivatu and Conrad Smith, and forwards Sione Lauaki, Angus Macdonald and James Ryan.

SQUAD

All Blacks rugby squad named today for the first three tests of the Tri-Nations rugby competition:

Backs: Leon MacDonald, Mils Muliaina, Rico Gear, Doug Howlett, Joe Rokocoko, Scott Hamilton, Ma'a Nonu, Isaia Toeava, Aaron Mauger, Daniel Carter, Luke McAlister, Piri Weepu, Byron Kelleher, Jimmy Cowan.

Forwards: Rodney So'oialo, Richie McCaw (captain), Chris Masoe, Jerry Collins, Reuben Thorne, Chris Jack, Ali Williams, Jason Eaton, Greg Rawlinson, Carl Hayman, Greg Somerville, Neemia Tialata, Tony Woodcock, Anton Oliver, Keven Mealamu, Andrew Hore.

- NZPA