Beauden Barrett's debut for the Blues is set to come earlier than expected.
Newshub understands the All Blacks star wants to make his long-awaited debut for the franchise in round 11 against the Hurricanes at Eden Park.
Barrett has specifically targeted this game to begin his tenure in Auckland against his former team and little brother Jordie at his new home ground.
That's a week earlier than the franchise planned, with Barrett earlier reported to be in camp from April 13, the week of their clash with the Jaguares.
Newshub understands the first-five/fullback has had enough of his sabbatical from the game and is eager to return to rugby.
That means Barrett's cancelled a planned trip to the US Masters golf tournament to make way for training and preparation for his first match since the All Blacks bronze-medal playoff against Wales at the World Cup.
But any game-time would still be at the hands of the Blues, with Barrett required to meet 'return to play' protocols.
Just two weeks ago, the Blues were forced to retract comments made by assistant coach Tom Coventry, who said Barrett was in line for a return in round seven.
While the Blues still have some time to wait to unveil their star signing, an earlier-than-expected return would be music to the ears of fans and teammates.
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