All Blacks star Beauden Barrett is back training with the Blues, the Super Rugby table-toppers said Tuesday, and could play for them this season after returning from Japan.
The 123-Test veteran is in Auckland after flying home following a stint with Toyota Verblitz, whose Japanese season finished in early May.
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Barrett, 32, who can cover fly-half or full-back, was granted a sabbatical by New Zealand Rugby to play in Japan.
He was originally due to miss the whole 2024 Super Rugby campaign, which enters the play-offs next month.
However, the Blues have injury woes and are looking into whether Barrett – who is contracted to the New Zealand side until 2025 -- is allowed to play for them this year.
"Beaudy is back from Japan and given he’s contracted with the Blues in 2025 and lives in Auckland he’s back training with the team," they said via social media.
"The Blues are seeking clarification around the application process for including him at the Blues for the remainder of this season."
The Blues are top of the Super Rugby table with two rounds left, but have been hit by injuries.
Fly-half Stephen Perofeta has been sidelined for most of the season while full-back Zarn Sullivan suffered a knee injury in last weekend's win over the Highlanders.
Perofeta was originally named to return against the Dunedin-based side, but was a late withdrawal.
The Blues face the Crusaders in Christchurch this weekend followed by a clash against the Chiefs to finish the regular season.
Barrett had returned to New Zealand to prepare for the Test season, which starts in July when the All Blacks host England in a two-match series.
