Barrett brothers etch names into the record books
Beauden, Scott and Jordie Barrett are set to become the first trio of brothers to start an All Blacks Test match when they march out at Eden Park on Saturday.
While the trio has appeared on field at the same time for the All Blacks twice in the past - lock Scott and utility back Jordie came off the bench to join Beauden when the All Blacks played Samoa early last year, and Scott also joined his brothers in the final stages of the third Test against the British and Irish Lions last year - Saturday will mark the first time all three start together at international level.
“It’s one thing to be selected in the squad together and to be in the 23 together, but to start it’s a very proud moment for me and the family,” Beauden Barrett said Thursday afternoon.
“We’re looking forward to it, it’s just one of those childhood goals or dreams you have when you’re running around the back lawn pretending to be Christian Cullen or Tana Umaga or whoever it was back then, it’s really come true so I can’t wait to get out there with them.”
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21-year-old Jordie Barrett made headlines over the weekend when it was revealed police were called after he entered the wrong house following a night out.
Beauden backed up his younger brother and believes that despite the hiccup, he will be up to the task on Saturday when he heads out in the No.15 jersey.
“He’s great, he’s trained really well this week and he’s in a good head space,” Barrett said.
“Not too often he gets flustered or fazed by big occasions. Occasionally he gets a hot head, on the field, he’s got that streak in him, which can be a good thing.
“In terms of temperament, he’s probably better than me in that department.”
That competitive streak is a trait the three All Black brothers share, but Beauden said it’s Jordie who brings it out the most.
“That quiet competitiveness, we don’t sort of talk about it but I can assure you when we’re playing backyard footy and cricket there’s plenty of that going on,” the 27-year-old first-five said.
“Jordie probably being the youngest, trying to keep up with all the big boys. There were many times where he’d be steaming in with a cricket ball and crying at the same time trying to get us out.”
The All Blacks' three-Test series against France kicks off at Eden Park on Saturday night.
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Yet more confirmation that you know nothing about the game. Thanks, appreciated.
Go to commentsAbsolutely spot on Marc!
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