Why Barrett 'wouldn't be the player I am now' without unique career path

Hurricanes star Jordie Barrett has played almost every position in the backline throughout his illustrious rugby career, but has seemingly found a home at inside centre.

Throughout last year’s end-of-season tour with the All Blacks, Barrett proved himself to be the best No. 12 in the country – with the potential to soar even higher.

Barrett, who played inside centre growing up, could find himself in the top echelon of No. 12’s in the world after another season in black.

But first, Barrett has a job to do with the Hurricanes.

The 26-year-old has been training at inside centre throughout a gruelling preseason, ahead of this year’s Super Rugby Pacific campaign. Ahead of the new season, Barrett has opened interesting journey to the midfield.

“It certainly helps, (having) continuity,” Barrett told Newshub.

“But looking back over the years, I wouldn’t be the player I am now if I didn’t learn what it takes to make another position.

“Even stints at wing and a couple of early stints at centre for the Hurricanes, a lot at 15… it helps you understand what others need out of you, in various positions.

“Then, when you get thrust into that position, you understand what it takes in that position as well.

“It’s great when you can go and give feedback to other players, and get their feedback as well and bounce ideas off each other. You can get the best out of others in your team as well.”

As the World Cup edges every closer, Barrett is now playing under a new level of pressure and expectation.

While some may argue that Barrett is better utilised at No. 15, the 26-year-old is set to battle it out with Crusaders ace David Havili for a starting spot in the All Blacks’ midfield.

But that’s not to say that his playing days at fullback are behind him.

“I enjoyed 15 as well,” Barrett added. “I’m not closing that fullback book.

“If I’m needed to be called upon for the Hurricanes or All Blacks down the track, I’m open to that.

“I know it sounds cliché, but anywhere on the park is great. Having the opportunity to play 12 – a position I played a lot as a kid – was great last year.

“I can build off what I did last year, but I’m not going to settle there. I’ve got to keep growing my game and evolving, as everyone else will be also.

“I just want to keep getting better every week.”

Super Rugby Pacific gets underway this Friday with a crunch clash between the champion Crusaders and the Chiefs in Hamilton.

As for Jordie Barrett and the Hurricanes, they’ll make their way across the ditch for an opening round blockbuster against the Queensland Reds in Townsville.