Jordie Barrett says he “understands” why new All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson is moving to Europe on short notice.
The center has signed a six-month contract with Leinster and is expected to join the Irish province in December 2024 after New Zealand's year-end tour.
Barrett did not decide to take the well-trodden route of taking a sabbatical in Japan, choosing instead to take on the United Rugby Championship and Champions Cup.
negotiation
The 27-year-old revealed he had discussed the move with Robertson and, of course, with New Zealand Rugby, who have extended his contract until the end of 2028.
“Razor was really good and really understanding and seeing it through my eyes,” he said. News Talk ZB. “Not many players go to Europe on sabbatical, so it was a different kind of discussion, but I'm grateful that Razor and NZR agreed and put a plan in place for me.”
Barrett wants to refresh mentally and develop as a player during his stay in Leinster and is focused on being at his best for the next Rugby World Cup.
The 2023 World Cup ended in agony with the All Blacks losing 12-11 to the Springboks, but this means there is unfinished business for the All Blacks and New Zealand in 2027.
“We're a little bit hurt from the last World Cup, but that motivated me and a lot of the other players to have a really good few years and prepare to be even better in the next few years,” Barrett said. “I'm doing it,” he said.
“It's an interesting transition with a new coach and a lot of new players, but I think it's an exciting time for New Zealand rugby and I wanted to be a part of it.”
'Money is a big factor' – All Blacks' Jordie Barrett admits 'main' reason for Leinster move
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Barrett's signing will make Leinster even more formidable next season as they have a full Irish squad.
“I feel like I should play my best rugby there,” the center said. “The challenge of competing in the Champions Cup and URC finals is something I would love to take on and I feel it will grow my game.”
Fatigue may be a concern after likely playing non-stop for 16 months, but Barrett believes he can find time off to recover.
“There is a big block from February to March.” [during the Six Nations] I'm not going to play rugby there. That was basically going to be my big break,” he added.
“It’s like you’re going from rugby to rugby, there’s no breaks, but you’ll manage to get through the season.”
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