Renowned playmaker Beauden Barrett is demonstrating his unequivocal intentions as he takes a hiatus in Japan to prepare for his reintegration into the All Blacks for the upcoming 2024 Rugby World Cup cycle. Barrett, a versatile fly-half who recently showcased his talents at full-back during the Rugby World Cup, has formalized a short-term agreement with Toyota Verblitz for the 2023/24 season while simultaneously gearing up for the upcoming Test season.
Barrett’s dedication to the All Blacks was further strengthened when he recently extended his contract with New Zealand Rugby, securing his participation on the team until the culmination of the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Clearly, Barrett feels that there is unfinished business with the All Blacks following their defeat to the Springboks in the 2023 final. Despite being 32 years old, Barrett is resolute in securing his position on the international stage for the next World Cup.
In a recent media interview, Barrett conveyed his steadfast desire to continue representing the All Blacks, stating, “There’s still a strong desire to play for the All Blacks, I’ve made that pretty clear, so that’s why I’m super grateful to be here and to mentally refresh.” He also underscored the value of the learning experience in Japan, emphasizing how it can contribute to his development as a player and benefit the All Blacks upon his return.
While he concentrates on his new club, Barrett is joined in Japan by several fellow All Blacks, including Ardie Savea, Richie Mo’unga, Sam Cane, and Shannon Frizell, who are all participating in the Japan Rugby League One season. Barrett conveyed his optimistic view of Japanese rugby, acknowledging the growing allure for international players to engage in the league, affirming the country’s influential position in the global rugby arena.
Additionally, Barrett’s teammate, Aaron Smith, has also relocated to Japan and will be joining forces with Barrett at Toyota Verblitz. The duo is poised to commence the season alongside South Africa’s Pieter-Steph du Toit, forming a formidable partnership on the field. Smith expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming matches, lauding the high level of skill and physicality demonstrated in the Japanese rugby league.
In a related development, an All Blacks legend recently advocated for World Rugby to “regulate” European rugby powerhouses, underscoring the necessity for a more balanced global rugby landscape. The plea for regulatory measures arises from concerns about the escalating influence of European clubs and the potential impact on the competitiveness of international rugby.
As Beauden Barrett dedicates himself to his forthcoming challenges in Japan and beyond, his resolute determination and unwavering commitment to the All Blacks stand as a testament to his enduring impact on the world of rugby.