All Blacks great Dan Carter has revealed what led to his shock return to Super Rugby Aotearoa with the Blues.
On Thursday, the Blues confirmed rumors that the three-time World Rugby player of the Year will join the Auckland-based side for the revised Super Rugby competition that kicks off next week.
While Carter says he's been eager to re-lace his boots since his Japan tenure was abruptly ended by a COVID-19 enforced cancellation, one of his main motivations is simply doing a favour for his former Crusaders and All Blacks teammate - now Blues head coach - Leon MacDonald.
The 38-year-old had been pondering a return to the field in some capacity, after the lockdown period reignited his desire to play rugby. A timely phone call from MacDonald - who was in need of backline depth - then quickly sparked a turn of events that has left even Carter himself shaking his head.
"It's all happened really quickly. Last week I probably thought this was the last place I would be," Carter says.
"It wasn't until Leon called saying Stevie [Perofeta] had been ruled out for the season, that's when I thought about it. It's a bit of a favour for a good mate of mine and I'll keep that favour in the back pocket.
"I’ve heard and seen a lot about the great work Leon has been doing at the club over the last couple of seasons, and to experience that first-hand and be coached by him, it’s pretty cool."
With three Super Rugby titles under his belt through a 141-game career with the Crusaders, Carter admits he's had to do some damage control with his former cohorts down south about his decision to play for their rivals, particularly with his father Neville, who's a staunch Cantabrian.
"I talked to the old man," explains Carter. "As a proud Cantab...as he has been throughout my career he's been supportive. I've talked to Razor to let him know my reasoning, too.
"I don't want to think about what it would be like to play against the Crusaders - if that were to happen. I'll deal with that later on.
Blues coach Leon MacDonald insists it will be a few rounds until Carter makes an impact on the field for his new side
But he expects the two-time World Cup champion to offer plenty behind the scenes for his talented young side, which was beginning to hit its straps prior to the season suspension.
"We have a young group of players," MacDonald says. "Now we have a second world player of the year in the team to help guide our players on and off the field.
"We have two designated 10s in Beauden and Otere, and Dan will be there to help them and our other young backs. If he gets back into playing form that warrants selection, then he could help us as a utility back in midfield or fullback."
MacDonald believes Carter's decision was by no means financially motivated.
"For Dan, it is not about the money. He is here as a favour, with a desire to give back to the sport. We are only a few minutes from his home so it works out perfectly for everyone and we are thrilled."
An Auckland resident for a number of years, Carter says it's a prime opportunity to give back to the city and share some of the exceptional wisdom with the next generation of potential All Blacks.
"It’s an exciting chance to train in the same city that my kids go to school in and my family are currently living. It will also be nice to share my experience with some of the young talent they have here at the Blues."
And Carter dismisses any suggestion that this Blues stint will be his career swansong, with his sights set on one final and more sentimental rugby accolade - outlasting his dad.
"[My father] played until he was 40, so I've got to play until I'm 41," Carter laughs.
