The quick-thinking of a young Tauranga man has helped saved the life of All Whites great Adrian Elrick.

Elrick, a member of the national team, collapsed on the green at the Matua Bowling Club in Tauranga on Saturday.

Sam Dockary, who has been a member of the Matua Club for a year, ran to the clubhouse for a defibrillator, which he used in addition to CPR, to revive Elrick, reports Stuff.

"Sam is a great guy. When I talk to him I will say thanks for saving my life,” says Elrick.

Other club members helped Dockary by putting Elrick in the recovery position, while former registered nurse Helen Wreaks worked to get his airways open.

Dockary set up the defibrillator and gave Elrick a shock, before performing CPR for about 90 seconds.

The Matua Bowls Club only purchased the defibrillator a year ago.