'I was really disappointed': Beauden Barrett refutes sabbatical report

Contrary to reports last week, Beauden Barrett did not approach New Zealand Rugby regarding a bold deal that would see the All Blacks utility back spend two years overseas while remaining eligible for the national side following the coming Rugby World Cup.

The New Zealand Herald broke the news that Barrett had requested what would have amounted to a landmark deal, allowing the 31-year-old to spend two seasons abroad before returning home to NZ ahead of the 2027 World Cup. Crucially, while based outside of New Zealand, Barrett would have been allowed to continue playing for the All Blacks.

The Spinoff revealed on Sunday, however, that it was not Barrett or his agent who approached NZR. Indeed, it was an NZR representative who first brought the idea to Barrett.

“I love playing for the All Blacks and still believe I have something to offer, but as my career is nearer the end than the start, I’m also keen to explore other options and experiences," Barrett told the Spinoff.

“I was really disappointed by the [report’s] implication that I’d tried to put myself above the rules, though. One of the first things that’s drummed into you in rugby is that nobody is bigger than the team and I believe in that idea wholeheartedly.”

NZR released a statement confirming Barrett's side of the story:

“In discussions with Beauden about his potential to remain in New Zealand beyond the World Cup, NZR management raised a possible option of him playing for the All Blacks in between participating in offshore competitions in one year of a much longer term. All parties were aware that further discussion and decision on this remained subject to NZR board decision.

“Any suggestion that Beauden proactively came to NZR seeking exceptional treatment is incorrect. He remains a highly regarded employee of NZR.”

Ultimately, the board ruled out the possibility of the unique arrangement after objections from the Super Rugby franchises and provincial unions.

Barrett's agent, Warren Alcock, confirmed to the Spinoff that they were considering all options following the 2023 World Cup but that a move offshore was certainly a possibility.

Barrett has previously been linked with French powerhouse Racing 92. Should the former World Rugby Player of the Year, New Zealand will be left with few experienced options in the No 10 jersey, with fellow All Blacks Richie Mo'unga already signalling his intentions to head overseas in 2024.