All Blacks flyhalf Beauden Barrett has signed a four-year extension which will see him stay in New Zealand until 2023 while also moving to the Blues.
Barrett has played 73 Tests for the All Blacks since making his debut in 2012 and 125 times for the Hurricanes since his Super Rugby debut in 2011.
As part of his new contract, he will take an extended break away from the game at the end of 2019 and start with the Blues midway through next year’s Vodacom Super Rugby season. He also has an option to take a short playing break in Japan some time over the next four years, with any break to be negotiated with NZR and the Blues.
Barrett said he was ‘stoked’ to finally make a decision and confirm his future with New Zealand Rugby and the Blues.
‘This is obviously a massive decision for me and my wife Hannah and we’re really looking forward to the next chapter of our lives.
‘The Hurricanes will always be a huge part of who I am. The Hurricanes environment and style of rugby they play has helped me become the player I am today, and I’ll be leaving some very good mates.
‘Wellington has been my rugby base for many years and university base for Hannah and we’ll always have fond memories of living there. Home for us now is Taranaki and Auckland and home and family are immensely important to both of us.
‘I’m also enthusiastic about the new challenge I’ll get with the Blues over the next four years. They’re a team on the rise, I like the way they play and I’m really looking forward to being a part of that.
