From the operating table to punching on and enjoying a beer, Michael Dan has packed plenty into a playing stint that comes to an end on Saturday

Merewethetr back-rower Michal Dan charges into the Hamilton defence. Dan will call full-time on his playing career after the grand final. Picture by Stewart Hazell

NOT many doctors have played rugby against someone they have operated on, punched-on with the same player and enjoyed a beer with them in the sheds afterwards.

Michael Dan is unique. There is no other way to describe the 35-year-old Merewether back-rower and orthopaedic surgeon.