The New Zealander helped Toulouse to their fifth European title at Twickenham Stadium on Saturday, having suffered gut-wrenching last-four defeats to Leinster Rugby and Exeter Chiefs in 2019 and 2020 respectively.

The 38-year-old cited the bond his team formed over the course of this European campaign as a huge factor in their success, after overcoming the likes of Munster and Clermont en route to the final.

“We were very close the last couple of seasons, in the semi-finals, but it was a very good feeling this year, with the way we were very tight,” Kaino explained.

“We had to play a game away at Munster, a game away at Clermont. I think that brought us closer together to be able to play our game, but I’m very proud today.”

The Heineken Champions Cup final on Saturday was veteran Kaino’s last game in professional rugby, with Toulouse’s triumph a fitting end to an illustrious career.

“Yeah, I always knew it was my last chance to challenge for the European [Champions] Cup,” he admitted.

“But I’m very proud of the team, the club and the way we’ve prepared, the way we challenged this season.

“What an honour it is to be part of this group and to be able to contribute to the club’s history.

“Today, I am proud to add another star to the Stade Toulousain shirt and to be part of this team, and to be around such young stars. It’s a joy.”

Toulouse back-rower Jerome Kaino says that away victories at Munster Rugby and ASM Clermont Auvergne were the catalyst for his team’s Heineken Champions Cup final victory over La Rochelle.