Jordie Barrett: The ‘absolutely ridiculous’ numbers behind All Blacks star’s performance for Leinster against Glasgow
Jordie Barrett celebrating Leinster's win over Glasgow in the Champions Cup
Leinster were at their ruthless best yet again in their 52-0 win over Glasgow Warriors last night, but the star of the show was All Blacks ace Jordie Barrett.
The versatile back, who is currently on sabbatical with the Irish outfit, has been seen as one of the key differences in Leo Cullen’s side this season as they march towards a historic double; but his showing against Glasgow last night was arguably his best in a blue shirt – which Planet Rugby’s News Editor Colin Newboult described as ‘absolutely ridiculous’.
Without further ado, here is a full rundown of the numbers behind Barrett’s performance.
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Barrett has become renowned for some serious attacking exploits, and that was again on display last night at the Aviva. Across his 80-minute shift, he notched a joint-game-high of 15 carries (level with Caelan Doris), chewing up 39 metres in the process (an average of 2.6 metres per carry).
His playmaking skills were also pivotal to this win, and he chipped in with 17 passes – this is even more impressive considering he was only beaten by Sam Prendergast (20) and Jamison Gibson-Park (60) for the men in blue. He also gave four offloads.
Barrett is also a very clever kicker of the ball, and yet again that came out last night as he made five kicks out of hand, with only Prendergast topping that tally with seven.
It could have been that much sweeter too if his try had stuck, but otherwise a fine attacking display.
Defensive class
While his attacking exploits might take a lot of the spotlight, Barrett’s defensive putout was simply exceptional last night. Throughout his shift, Barrett made a whopping 14 tackles, made even more impressive when you consider he beat the likes of Josh van der Flier (12) and RG Snyman and Ronan Kelleher (10) to finish second in the Leinster tackle charts. Only Doris contributed more on the night, with the Ireland ace making 17.
Rounding off a fantastic defensive performance, Barrett made an astonishing three turnovers, again matching number eight Doris in that department.
A proper back-rower’s performance from Barrett, despite him actually playing centre!
