The Crusaders are preparing for an emotional Super Rugby final following the natural disaster that devastated Christchurch.
Thorn leads the charge to return triumphant to devastated city
The Crusaders are preparing for an emotional Super Rugby final as they seek to give the people of Canterbury some joy following the natural disaster that devastated the region.
The deadly 6.3-magnitude earthquake that hit Christchurch in February killed 181 and left much of the city uninhabitable.
Having travelled more than 100,000 kilometres during the competition, the Crusaders - who were left homeless as a result of the earthquake - now find themselves in the final against the Reds on Saturday.
And it is an occasion that All Black lock Brad Thorn is relishing as his side seek to win their eighth title.
"It's been a big 10 months back there (in Christchurch). I feel a responsibility, there's more to this game," he said.
"In the past when I've played grand finals it's been about the team and you share it with the fans as well. This time I really feel this is something for the people back there.
Proud
"I know this is something that would be very special for them. I imagine it will have a great impact."
Thorn has been touched by the support and resounding strength of the people at the centre of the devastation, particularly given that the Crusaders have been on the road for the whole tournament.
"You just feel so proud of those people back there," he added.
"I think they really love the fact we've been on the road the whole time, that we've had injuries and we're still here."
But Thorn admits the squad rarely talk about the quake amongst themselves.
"We don't really need to talk about it much because we're living it," he said.
