Boost for New Zealand as All Blacks star recommits until 2027

All Blacks star Beauden Barrett will further his playing career in New Zealand for the next four years after he signed a new deal with New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and the Blues until the end of 2027.

The 32-year-old is currently plying his trade at Japan Rugby League One outfit Toyota Verblitz but he will be available to play for the All Blacks when he returns to New Zealand next year and will be back in action at Super Rugby Pacific level in 2025.

The 123-Test veteran said his decision is a reflection of his desire to play for the All Blacks.

“It’s a huge privilege to put on the black jersey and one I will never take for granted,” Barrett told the All Blacks’ official website. “I’m still really passionate about playing alongside my brothers Scott and Jordie for Coastal, Taranaki or the All Blacks so looking forward to adding value where I can on my return from Japan.

“I am also grateful for the continued support from Taranaki, the Blues and New Zealand Rugby.”

Integral player for the All Blacks

The two-time World Rugby Player of the Year, who can play at fly-half and full-back, has been a vital cog for All Blacks since making his debut against Ireland in 2012, and he has scored 734 points and 43 tries during a Test career that included a Rugby World Cup victory in England in 2015.

He made his Super Rugby debut for the Hurricanes in 2011 but moved to the Blues in 2020 and has played 30 matches for the Auckland-based franchise, scoring 199 points for the team.

NZR chief executive Mark Robinson is delighted that Beauden will be returning to New Zealand in 2024.

“Beauden is not just an exceptional player but also an outstanding leader on and off the field,” he said. “His return is a testament to the strength and appeal of our rugby environment.

“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.”

Incoming All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson echoed Robinson’s sentiments.

“Beauden brings an enormous amount of class to the table,” he said. “He is the second most-capped All Black back in history for a reason and to have his knowledge and experience in our game is a reflection of his loyalty.”

Blues chief executive Andrew Hore is excited that the star playmaker will be returning to the men from Auckland.

‘One of rugby’s good people’

“Beauden is wonderful to have at the Blues, he’s one of rugby’s good people and treats everyone with respect,” said Hore.

“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.”

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