The All Black lock Brad Thorn admits his forced week off wasn't a pleasant experience and he can't wait to get back into action this weekend against Australia in Sydney.
Thorn was suspended for the Springbok test which particularly upset him as he was born just over the hill from Carisbrook.
He'll make his first start against Australia, having come off the bench twice in 2003..
Thorn, who has also played 10 years in the National Rugby League, says he's looking forward to playing in front of a big Australian crowd at Sydney's Olympic Stadium.
