New Zealand All Blacks' Geordie Barrett celebrates a try during the Rugby Championship match between New Zealand All Blacks and Argentina Pumas at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton, New Zealand on September 3, 2022. (Phil Walter/Getty Images)
- Jordie Barrett joined Leinster for six months in December before returning to the Hurricanes on a deal until 2028.
- Barrett is looking to strengthen his game in Ireland and says the move is a challenging opportunity to bring new skills back to New Zealand rugby.
- Barrett has reflected on his childhood links to Ireland and expressed his excitement at being reunited with family and friends during his time in Leinster.
- For more rugby news, check out our dedicated section.
All Blacks utility back Geordie Barrett will join Leinster on a six-month contract in December, New Zealand Rugby Union and Province of Ireland announced on Monday.
Barrett, 27, who plays international rugby alongside his older brothers Brodie and Scott, is expected to arrive in Dublin after the November test period.
Barrett will return to New Zealand with the Hurricanes after completing his contract with the four-time Champions Cup winners until 2028.
“Overall, I think this move is going to be very difficult, but it's a positive challenge,” Barrett said.
“Going north for different conditions, different teams, different referees – I think it will widen my game and change the way I look at the game. And ultimately I'll take the best of New Zealand Rugby and Tests. You'll be able to take it home in your jersey, ideally,'' at the end of it. ”
My guy is signed until 2028, congratulations Jordie Barrett??
As part of his contract extension, Barrett will play briefly in Ireland after his stint in New Zealand ends in 2024. He will spend six months in Leinster starting in December before returning to his original position. pic.twitter.com/c7vxZBAi1V
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) April 15, 2024
Barrett, who can play across the backline, spent his childhood near Dublin when his father ran a farm.
“Ireland has a special place in the Barrett family,” Barrett said.
“Having the opportunity to go back 20 years and see family, friends and connections is so great.”
New Zealand's next match will be the opening test of two consecutive matches against England on July 6, before the Rugby Championship begins in a month's time.
