New Zealand back Jordie Barrett is to join Leinster on a short-term contract next season.
The brother of Beauden and Scott, Jordie Barrett has 57 caps for New Zealand, and will join in December 2024 and play until the end of next season.
Barrett has made over 100 appearances for the Hurricanes in Super Rugby, and made his debut for the All Blacks in 2017 against Samoa.
He can play at centre, full-back, out-half and wing, and is also another kicking option for Leinster.
Barrett is still on sabbatical and contracted to the NZRU until the end of next season.
Speaking about the decision, the 57-times capped All Black said, “It’s going to be a great place for me to develop as a rugby player in a different environment where I’ll learn so many different things.
“Ireland is a special place for the Barrett family. We’ve got so many great family connections in Oldcastle, in County Meath and throughout Dublin. To have an opportunity to go back and meet some family and friends and connections that were made twenty years ago is pretty cool.”
Leinster Rugby Head Coach, Leo Cullen, welcomed the announcement and looked forward to welcoming Barrett to the club, “We’re delighted that Jordie has agreed to join us after New Zealand’s tour in early December, especially as he has chosen Leinster ahead of a number of other very attractive options.
“Jordie is a fifty-plus cap All Black with an outstanding skillset who has been performing at the highest level of the game for multiple seasons now. He is keen to seek out a new experience at Leinster and I’m sure we will learn a lot from each other during his time with us.
“The Barrett family have strong connections with Ireland and Leinster in particular, so it’s a sort of homecoming for Jordie! “I’m sure all our supporters will be really excited to welcome one of the best players in the world and see up close what he brings to the team.
“We would also like to thank the New Zealand Rugby Union for their support with this move.”
Sourse: breakingnews.ie
