Rugby

Beauden Barrett signs with Blues

July 12, 2019 8:43 am

Beauden Barrett [Source: stuff.co.nz]

All Blacks first-five Beauden Barrett has signed a deal with the Blues.

Barrett, who has played nine seasons for the Hurricanes, is headed north to Auckland on a four-year deal.

It is not yet known whether the new contract includes a rugby sabbatical like other big-name All Blacks contracts include.

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The Blues have struggled in the Super Rugby competition since 2012, with the last time they reached the top eight being in 2011.

The Auckland franchise has also failed to find a long-term first-five in that time as well, with three young flyhalfs in Harry Plummer, Stephen Perofeta and Otere Black earning time in the No.10 jersey last season.

Barrett’s move north has been rumoured this year but the first-five was tight-lipped on his future while he was focused on the Hurricanes’ most recent campaign, which ended in a semi-final loss to the Crusaders.

While at the Hurricanes, Barrett has won one Super Rugby title, a Rugby World Cup, and two World Rugby Player of the Year awards.

[Source: TVNZ]