Leinster have sealed a shock transfer coup after announcing All Black center Jordie Barrett will join them in December, until the end of next season.
The 27-year-old veteran of 57 Tests is widely considered one of the best backs in the game and, as part of a new contract with New Zealand Rugby, has exercised the option to take a year off.
He will spend around six months in Dublin, joining the province in the Irish capital after the All Blacks tour of Europe later this year.
News of the agreement has caused widespread shock and amazement. It is a formidable statement from Leinster about their intention to remain one of the leading forces in club rugby in the northern hemisphere.
They are already almost invincible at home and perennial challengers for Champions Cup and United Rugby Championship titles, but the addition of one of the revered Barrett brothers will add further pedigree to their brilliant team packed with Test talent.
Leinster have sealed a shock transfer coup after announcing that Jordie Barrett will join them.
While many leading All Blacks choose to travel to Japan for a gap year, Jordie Barrett has chosen to retrace family steps after a period living in Ireland in 2000.
He is excited by the opportunity to further develop his game in the prestigious Leinster team, with the input of new senior coach Jacques Nienaber, who guided South Africa to World Cup glory before moving to Dublin.
“It’s going to be a great place to develop as a player, in a different environment where I’ll learn a lot of different things,” he said.
‘I think this measure is going to be really challenging, but a positive challenge. Heading north, to different conditions, different teams, different referees; I think it will open up my game, make me look at the game differently and ultimately bring the best to New Zealand rugby and ideally the Test jersey at the end.
On a personal note, Jordie, who plays in New Zealand alongside brothers Beauden and Scott, added: “Ireland is a special place for the Barrett family. We have many great family connections in Oldcastle, County Meath and across Dublin. Having the opportunity to go back and meet family, friends and connections made 20 years ago is great.
Leinster head coach Leo Cullen announced Leinster’s attractive recruitment, saying: “We are delighted that Jordie has agreed to join us after the tour of New Zealand, especially as he has chosen Leinster over other very attractive options.” . I’m sure our fans will be very excited to welcome one of the best players in the world.
“Jordie is an All Black of over fifty caps with an exceptional skill set who has been performing at the highest level of the game for a number of seasons. ‘He is looking forward to seeking a new experience at Leinster and I am sure we will learn a lot from each other.’