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Sport Nation
FWC: FRA v IRQ, 8am on SN Extra'Beyond the realms of expectation': Barrett savours Hurricanes triumph amid quick All Blacks turnaround
Sport Nation • June 22nd, 2026 5:23 pm
Jordie Barrett and the Hurricanes celebrate | Photo: Photosport
Star centre Jordie Barrett has confessed even he was somewhat taken aback by the dominant nature of the Hurricanes' demolition of the Chiefs in Saturday's Super Rugby final.
Barrett was one of the standouts for the Hurricanes at the Cake Tin, where the hosts blew the visitors off the park with an opening blitz which essentially sealed the result by the halftime interval, coasting clear to a staggering final scoreline of 60-5.
It was a combination of meticulous preparation and unwavering self-belief he says conspired for Saturday's perfect storm against a team which had proved their nemesis to date this year.
"It was probably beyond the realms of expectation," Barrett told Sport Nation's Millsy & Guy.
"But in some ways, the group had a bit of confidence there within our system and within ourselves and believed that we were a decent enough footy team, but to then be able to execute - it's a completely different story, particularly in a final.
"Massively excited. Obviously stoked to get that result against a side who have been consistent for a number of years now, beat us at home this year and got the wood over us in preseason, so we prepared like there was no tomorrow."
Izzy Dagg on the Hurricanes' 2026 dominance | Scotty & Izzy
He also praised the Hurricanes’ attacking mindset, the impact of their forward pack, and the breakout seasons of new All Blacks call-ups Fehi Fineanganofo and Josh Moorby.
And with All Blacks camp just days away after being included in Dave Rennie's squad for the Nations Championship as vice-captain, Barrett said the challenge now is to enjoy the title briefly before shifting focus to the national setup.
"We wouldn't have it any other way," said Barrett of the quick turnaround.
"Last few years, we've had an extra week or two, so it's pretty special.
"We just have to keep reminding ourselves in the past couple of days, us Hurricanes boys, we haven't tasted that success in a long time. So I think it's just important we step back, smell the roses, enjoy each other's company, and then just move on to wherever we're going individually."
Listen to the full interview below:
