Jordie Barrett re-commits to Hurricanes and New Zealand - with a catch

Outside back Jordie Barrett has committed to the All Blacks for three more years in a win for New Zealand Rugby.

The versatile 22-year-old, who can cover most positions in the backline and has scored eight tries in 10 Tests, has chosen to stick with his Super Rugby team the Hurricanes rather than pursue a lucrative overseas contract.

Barrett is also solid off the boot, kicking 58 conversions for his club and slotting 25 conversions since 2017.

“There is a really good mix of youth as well as experienced leaders in the Hurricanes squad and I feel like this is the best place to develop my game,” Barrett said in a statement.

“Staying in New Zealand rugby is really important to me. I’m enjoying playing alongside my mates, and I’ve got further aspirations and goals I want to reach while I’m playing in New Zealand.”

His new contract allows him the opportunity to switch teams after 2020. Barrett wants to one day play Super Rugby alongside his older brothers Beauden and Scott, who are also New Zealand internationals.

All Blacks coach Steve Hansen said Jordie was an outstanding player, who had grabbed his opportunities with the national side with both hands.

“He has a big future in the game and we look forward to seeing his career grow over the next few years,” Hansen said.

Hurricanes head coach John Plumtree described Barrett as a “key individual” and said the club were looking forward to growing his game even further.

“We want to really develop Jordie as a leader and he will be a key driver in our team for the next three seasons,” Plumtree said.

“He is going to play a big role on and off the field for us.”

– AAP