Chiefs coach Warren Gatland says Dan Carter’s presence at the Blues will improve Beauden Barrett as a player.
Having not played on New Zealand soil since 2015, Carter was earlier this week unveiled as a Blues player, answering an SOS from coach Leon MacDonald requesting he joins the side as injury cover for Stephen Perofeta.
Despite the fact that his Chiefs could well be in the firing line of Carter’s return to New Zealand rugby, Gatland couldn’t hide his excitement at welcoming back one of the game’s most decorated players.
‘Look I just think it’s brilliant, it’s great for the game and Dan, it’s an opportunity for him,’ Gatland said.
‘He probably needs to get out of the house and do a bit of stuff to keep himself interested, great for media, great for the fans and sponsors. It’s just going to create some interest, I think it’s brilliant.’
Gatland also hailed the impact that Carter will have on the Blues’ young core of playmakers, including two-time World Rugby player of the year, Barrett.
‘I think he’ll be great for Beauden Barrett, won’t he? Given his experience,’ said Gatland.
‘He’ll be good for the Blues, not just for the 10s, but other players, he’s got a world of experience, success wherever he’s been.’
‘We all want superstars involved in the game. We want to keep our best players playing in New Zealand, for him to be able to come back. I just think it’s good for the youngsters, he’s been a legend of New Zealand rugby and I don’t see any negatives towards it.’
He’s still got it ?#SuperRugbyAotearoa pic.twitter.com/t4UuwUt48A
— Super Rugby (@SuperRugbyNZ) June 4, 2020
Photo: Andrew Cornaga/Photosport
