Beauden Barrett is one of the most well known and most respected names in World Rugby. The 32-year-old already holds a catalogue of honours to his name as a two-time winner of the World Player of the Year award, a World Cup winner in 2015, and remains one of the highest capped internationals of all time.
Recently he has been enjoying his time in Japan with top division side, Suntory Sungoliath. Come 2024 Barrett will be restarting the new season in new colours, however, after recently agreeing a one year deal with rivals Toyota Verblitz which will keep in the country until 2025.
His journey following this stint will take him back to his homeland of New Zealand, where he will rejoin up with the Auckland Blues, a team for which he had become a fan favourite with after many years with the Hurricanes.
The two year deal will take Barrett up until 2027, which will give the talented playmaking plenty of time to make a real difference to the Blues in what will likely be the final move of his professional career.
“I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time in the Blues jersey so far and I’m looking forward to reconnecting with the club when I get back to New Zealand,” the 123-cap international said.
“For my family and I, Auckland has now become our home, although Taranaki will always be in my heart. I have enjoyed my time with the Blues and I know we can achieve results that reflect the talent we have in the squad.
“I’m still hugely motivated to win championships with this team and that is where my focus lies. I have met some great people who support the Blues and we share the same vision for this team.”
Blues CEO, Andrew Hore, was thrilled at the news that Barrett will remain with three club until 2027.
“Beauden is wonderful to have at the Blues,” Hore explained. “He’s one of rugby’s good people and treats everyone with respect,
“He’s been a key driver for many of our social projects and community work over the last few years, such as our Covid and flood response, and is someone who’s prepared to share his views in the team environment for the greater good.
“Any contract extension is when we reflect on a player’s time at the club and in finalising this contract it gave the Blues and Beauden the opportunity to review where we’ve come from and commit to the vision we have for the team and club.
“We know Beauden feels he has unfinished business here at the Blues and we’re confident he will come back with fire in the belly to take the club forward on and off the field,”
NZR CEO, Mark Robinson echoed these words.
“Beauden is not just an exceptional player but also an outstanding leader on and off the field. His return is a testament to the strength and appeal of our rugby environment.”
Should Barrett be required by the All Blacks for the next World Cup in Australia, then by returning to the Blues, he makes himself once again eligible.
“It’s great to have him return next year and be eligible to continue his career with the All Blacks while also lining up for the Blues the following year, contributing to the ongoing success of rugby in New Zealand.”
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