All Blacks star Beauden Barrett seems unlikely to return to Super Rugby Pacific this season, despite a surprise appearance at Blues training this week.
The veteran first-five/fullback has just completed a Japanese sabbatical with the Toyota Verlitz club, returning to New Zealand to prepare for All Blacks tests against England and Fiji in July - if selected by new national coach Scott Robertson.
Barrett, 32, has played for the Blues since 2020, helping them to the 2021 Super Rugby Trans Tasman crown and 2022 Super Rugby Pacific final, before their semi-final exit last season.
In his absence, the Auckland franchise has been well served by Stephen Perofeta and Harry Plummer in the No.10 jersey, but his training involvement has prompted speculation the competition tabletoppers may try to sneak him back on the field, with playoffs looming.
"He's been bloody good, sharp as ever," said teammate Rieko Ioane. "He's in top nick, as he always is, and skills are always sharp.
"Just having him around the boys... [Plummer], himself and Stevie all have a connection, but more so our younger members. Him getting around with his experience has been awesome.
"He sees the game a lot different to how I do and 10s are usually the smartest ones on the field. Baz knows a helluva lot and helps my game, especially my skills - it's awesome."
Newshub understands, to return to Super Rugby, Barrett would need SANZAAR dispensation, which would be difficult to obtain, since he missed the April 1 registration deadline.
The Blues visit archrivals and defending champions Crusaders at Christchurch on Saturday, hoping to clinch top spot for the playoffs next month.
Join Newshub at 7pm Saturday for live updates of the Blues v Crusaders Super Rugby Pacific clash
