"I can’t physically play like Ma’a Nonu," declares Jordie Barrett, the youngest of the famed Barrett brothers, vehemently dismissing any comparisons to the All Blacks legend. Unlike Nonu, whose style is iconic, Barrett emphasizes his unique approach to the game, refusing to be boxed into traditional expectations of a number 12.
With nearly 70 caps for New Zealand, Barrett’s career has been versatile, initially appearing as a playmaking full-back before settling into the midfield. "I feel comfortable enough in both positions," he admits, while acknowledging the relentless demands of international rugby. "Rugby's so tough at the highest level these days," he adds.
"I feel like I’ve got a deep understanding of the game, which helps, but I guess I just want to play one of those positions the best I can if it grants me a starting All Black jersey."
Barrett is not just about clinging to his jersey; he’s on a mission to refine his skills to adapt to the evolving nature of the game. "I’m trying to develop a skill-set and I feel like I’m getting there. If I need to kick to someone, I can; if I need to pass to someone, I can; if I want to get my hands through an offload, I can; if I want to beat someone, I can," he explains, outlining the multifaceted talents he aims to master.
Off the field, Barrett's journey is equally supported by familial ties, with his brothers Beauden and Scott providing not just inspiration but real-time advice. "It’s not just the 80-minute performance you see on Saturday," Jordie reflects on the influence of his brothers. "It’s the times when you’re away from home in hotels on tours where most guys just have teammates and mates."
Looking ahead, Barrett harbors ambitions of joining his siblings in the elite circle of All Blacks centurions. "It would be unbelievable," he muses, contemplating a future where he might stand shoulder to shoulder with his brothers not just at family gatherings, but in the record books of New Zealand rugby.