Jordie Barrett, the centre for the All Blacks, has explained his decision to join Leinster following the announcement of his short-term contract earlier this week.
The incredibly gifted Hurricanes player, who can play both center and full back, and the Irish province have reached an agreement on a six-month deal that will begin in December 2024.
It’s a requirement of his new contract with New Zealand Rugby, which will at the very least keep him in the nation through the end of 2028.
While the majority of All Blacks choose to spend their time off in Japan, Barrett has chosen to pursue a different career route, competing in the Champions Cup and United Rugby Championship.
Canes CEO Avan Lee said that the 27-year-old might have made more money in Asia. While the center acknowledged that Leinster’s greater financial advantages were a factor, he also disclosed that other considerations played a role in his choice of team.
“[Money] is undoubtedly an important factor. That may be at the top of the tree or a little lower for other people,” he said on Newstalk ZB.
“At the summit of that tree is where I placed my growth, my experiences, and my intention to return and strive to be a greater rugby player, All Black, and Hurricane. That was more important than anything else I could have done.
“My eyes were always focused on traveling to Japan and spending a brief time there. However, Leinster made me an offer because of their club’s reputation, previous accomplishments, and future goals, all of which truly stood out and thrilled me.
He will have a much harder few months than his New Zealand team-mates who relocate to Japan since he chose to stay in Europe.
Barrett will immediately enter Japan Rugby League One when New Zealand’s end-of-year tour concludes. This league and tournament is regarded as less physical than the leagues and tournaments in Europe.
A small amount of equilibrium exists. “All Blacks who have played X number of Tests in the past have been eligible for sabbaticals,” he stated.
It was nearly time to switch things up and reenergize in order to return and improve your situation so that your profession would last longer.
“That was a major factor in my decision as well, but I also saw it as a fantastic chance to travel to a location where I think I’ll return a better rugby player.”
