Barrett no longer a 'headache' for All Blacks

Two-time World Rugby player of the year Beauden Barrett says he has “bounced back” well from his latest head knock and is ready to return to action for the Blues in Super Rugby Pacific.

All Blacks flyhalf Barrett, who only recently returned to action following a concussion suffered against Ireland in November, was forced off in the Blues’ 32-25 victory over the Highlanders in Dunedin on March 26.

The 30-year-old was taken off in the 41st minute after a collision with Highlanders centre Fetuli Paea.

“I was very relieved to wake up on the Sunday morning after the game feeling clear in my head,” Barrett told news website Stuff.

“I just had a very sore neck.

“It’s all good, especially considering where I’d been, and the things I did to get back to playing.

“I’m confident in being back playing and psychologically it’s great to get back out there.

“There was a little scare from that Highlanders game, but I’ve bounced back from it well.

“There is nothing to be concerned about from a head point of view.”

Barrett said last month his recovery period in the aftermath of the injury suffered against Ireland was “extremely challenging”.

The Blues take on the Chiefs on April 9 before facing the Crusaders on April 15.