Centurion still Taranaki boy at heart

• Published date: 03 November 2021

Barrett claimed two intercept tries and was named man of the match ahead of Ardie Savea as the All Blacks toasted their 11th player to reach 100 tests with a compelling 54-16 victory over a heavily depleted Welsh side on Sunday morning (NZT).

All 100-test players ride waves of emotions leading into their big dance. Barrett was no different. Being away from home, with his family unable to travel in the circumstances, changed the complexion of his occasion.

After turning it on for the 74,500 sell-out crowd, Barrett made special mention of Bob Graham, his wife Hannah’s grandfather who played 103 games for and captained Auckland but died last week.

“It’s been a tough two weeks for my family, for Hannah’s family, losing someone very close to us in her grandfather Bob,” Barrett said.

“It was nice to put a performance out there for him, my family and myself.

“He was an exceptional man who I got really close to. He was like another grandfather figure for me up in Auckland. He touched me a lot in my life. It’s tough being away from family when these things happen.

“It was a very emotional week and a very emotional two weeks. Because of the amount of support and love that’s flooded my inbox; those who have been there since day one. I’ve reminisced a fair bit and it brings back some great memories.

“It was hard. I didn’t train that well this week, there was a lot on my mind. I just wanted to enjoy it and play well. It was such a cool place to play my 100th. To have a performance like that, I was super proud.”

Barrett had brother Jordie on the pitch throughout and long-time friend TJ Perenara gave a touching tribute after presenting his former Hurricanes teammate with his commemorative cap post-match.

While now living in Auckland, Barrett will forever be a Taranaki man at heart. His family, unable to travel amid the pandemic restrictions, celebrated his achievement with a hearty local presence at their dairy farm.

“They sure are. Dad has a keg of Guinness and a ham on ... I think they’re having a lunch there. My family all went around and watched the game, so they’ll be making the most of Sunday — special time on lower Parihaka Rd.

“When I reminisced throughout the week, I thought of all the people who have supported me throughout my journey from when it started at the Coastal Rugby Club right through to this moment. Those in Taranaki, my family, Hannah at home with little Billie allowing me to do what I’m doing.”

Barrett made his test debut off the bench against...