BeaudenBarrett

Beauden Barrett gives New Zealand a half-back who can shape a Test from fly half or fullback, and his international output reflects that range: 145 caps and 836 points for New Zealand. He has also received World Rugby player of the year recognition, placing him among the leading figures in the modern game. That dual role is central to how New Zealand can structure a backline.

His roles cover different angles of back play: a fly half's passing and kicking game, plus a fullback's reading of space. The 2026 season frames his current standing, with Toyota Verblitz in Japan Rugby League One after earlier spells with Taranaki, the Hurricanes, the Blues and Tokyo Suntory Sungoliath. The Blues are listed among his teams, and supporters can trace a career that moves between New Zealand and Japan.