Beaudy signs with Canes for three more years
There was only ever one choice for Beauden Barrett when considering his playing future.
The 25-year-old has signed a three-year deal to remain with the Hurricanes in Super Rugby, and Taranaki at provincial level.
Speculation was rife that the Blues were trying to lure the All Blacks first-five north, teaming up with Tana Umaga, Sonny Bill Williams and company from 2017 onwards.
But Barrett insists that was never an option, wanting to continue his search for glory with the Hurricanes.
‘‘It was clear in my mind right from the start, although there was a little bit of speculation,’’ Barrett said.
‘‘Particularly after the season we’ve had [at the Hurricanes], or the last two seasons we’ve had, the core group of players we have and the talent that’s around.
‘‘[The Blues] was never an option.’’
Also off the table was a move overseas, although the offers were rolling in.
In France, Barrett could have named his price, but clearly money doesn’t bring Barrett happiness.
For him, it’s all about playing in New Zealand.
‘‘Playing footy in New Zealand, it’s as good as it gets.
‘‘The black jersey was a huge factor. I love playing for the Hurricanes, I love the Naki, always a Naki boy, and obviously the black jersey, every opportunity I get to pull it on, it’s why I play rugby.
‘‘To be honest, there were negotiations or approaches [from overseas] made to my agent, Warren, but that’s where it was left.
‘‘I never got into any of those discussions. I was clear where I wanted to be and my job was just to focus on playing footy. It never progressed too far at all.’’
Barrett didn’t rule out heading overseas in future, but his focus for now is very narrow.
‘‘I’ve just realised, this last six years has gone really quick, so it’s always in the back of your mind what’s going to happen down the track.
‘‘When it comes to the serious negotiations or considerations, New Zealand rugby is the only thing in my mind at the moment.’’
Confidence is flowing through Barrett’s veins, hence he signed the longest deal of his professional career.
In the past, Barrett has inked one or two year deals with NZ Rugby, leaving his options open.
‘‘I guess, I was sort of finding my way in New Zealand rugby,’’ Barrett said.
‘‘It was always a year or two at a time, but based on a lot of factors it’s pretty clear in my mind that I’m a Hurricane, I want to play for the Hurricanes and I want to play my footy in New Zealand. It’s been a lot more obvious of late.
‘‘If you’re in the All Blacks team, that in itself gives you a lot of confidence. You want to be playing for the All Blacks and you want it to last forever.’’
Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd said the franchise were delighted to have Barrett secured for the coming three years.
‘‘He’s been a big part of our success over the past two seasons and has developed into a real leader within the group, both on and off the field,’’ Boyd said.
‘‘We all saw the influence he had this season and his combination in the halves with TJ Perenara continues to go from strength to strength.’’
Hurricanes chief executive Avan Lee was equally pleased to secure Barrett’s services.
‘‘I think I speak for all of the Hurricanes fans in saying there are some exciting times ahead with a player of his calibre wearing the No 10 jersey.’’
All Blacks coach Steve Hansen added: ‘‘He’s fast becoming one of ‘the’ players in the world. He’ll continue to grow − he’s not the finished product yet, by any stretch of the imagination − but as he does, I think we’ll see something pretty special, so it’s nice to have him signed up and secure.’’