Veteran Playmaker Beauden Barrett Returns to Blues Amidst Injury Concerns
The injury-stricken Blues have sought clarity on the Super Rugby Pacific regulations after the return of star playmaker Beauden Barrett from his sabbatical in Japan. With fullback Zarn Sullivan potentially facing a season-ending knee injury and first-five Stephen Perofeta absent since round six, the Blues are in need of additional cover in the positions Barrett specializes in.
The club confirmed that Barrett, who is contracted with the Blues until 2025 and resides in Auckland, has rejoined the team for training. However, the Blues are now seeking clarification on the process for including the veteran All Black for the remainder of the season, as the playoffs loom just three weeks away.
Speaking on the Rugby Direct Podcast, New Zealand Rugby’s head of professional rugby, Chris Lendrum, recently addressed this issue, stating that players returning from offshore commitments after April 1 are “unlikely” to feature in the Super Rugby finals. Lendrum noted that the “very most” such players could do is return as emergency replacements for a few games, but even then, they would require dispensation from the competition.
Barrett is not the only All Black back in training with his Super Rugby squad, as Sam Cane has rejoined the Chiefs, and Ardie Savea has been spotted with his Hurricanes teammates, enjoying some kava.
The Blues, currently boasting the best record in the competition, will be hoping to gain clarity on the regulations and secure the availability of their experienced playmaker as they prepare for the crucial playoffs.
đź”— Source
