Barrett set to take his opportunity

Editor

All Blacks pivot Beauden Barrett is aware of the significance of the chance which he has before him over the next two weeks.

Barrett had to wait until his 22nd Test for his first start at fly-half and he is now expected to be given the chance to start in his preferred position in the upcoming Tests against Argentina and South Africa.

Although the circumstances are not ideal – after Aaron Cruden was dropped from the Test squad following a late night drinking session.

But after biding his time for so long, Barrett will be keen to prove he is ready to make full use of the chance presented to him.

“Potentially it’s a great opportunity for me,” Barrett told Fairfax Media.

“I’ll just prepare as I normally do. It’s another challenge, Argentina at home.

“I’ll find out if I’m next in line when the team is named. We’ve just got to move on as a team. There’s a big challenge.”

The 23-year-old believes he learnt lots of lessons when he started against the Pumas in Napier – in rainy conditions – which will stand him in good stead as overcast weather is predicted for La Plata this week.

“It’s another step up, especially conditions like that make it difficult,” added Barrett.

“It gives me a bit of confidence, if selected, that I’m used to playing them.

“Hopefully with the weather like it is at the moment we can expect this and play an expansive game.”