Beauden Barrett admits to a significant sense of relief, after making his first appearance in a Blues jersey.
In one of the most highly anticipated Super Rugby debuts in history, Barrett helped lead his new team to a comfortable win over his former side, emerging 30-20 winners against the Hurricanes.
"It's good to get it done and out of the way," notes Barrett. "Obviously, there was that emotional hurdle to get over playing against all my mates, as well as starting a new chapter in my career.
"I'm very proud of the start and the effort from our boys tonight."
Barrett's Blues may have claimed victory, but his Hurricanes teammates could at least claim to a couple of small victories, particularly during Dane Coles' try celebration.
Barrett's cover tackle wasn't enough to force Coles into touch, and the hooker and his teammates let their former pivot know all about it in the try's aftermath.
"That just happened in slow motion," Barrett laughs. "It was almost like it was meant to be, so fairplay to him.
"He's pretty good in the wide channels, so a guy like him should be able to finish against someone like me."
The two-time World Rugby Player of the Year produced a clinical performance from the back, using his tactical kicking game to excellent effect and showing early signs of chemistry with his new teammates.
Despite all of the hype surrounding his franchise debut, Barrett sensed the occasion was much bigger than just himself, as 43,000 packed into Eden Park to celebrate both rugby and life after COVID-19.
"It was about rugby being back and about everyone coming together to support this team… just a celebration of rugby.
"It's fantastic to be back playing and to see the support. We were absolutely blown away by the support.
"Hopefully, we can get that again, when we're back in a couple of week's time."
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