Bowden Barrett, half-fly All Blacks, feared he would have to end his career due to a concussion

Bowden Barrett (30, 98 caps) said he fears he will have to end his career after suffering a concussion in last November’s game against Ireland. The man who was named the world’s best player twice (2016 and 2017) had to leave the field after suffering a major shock during New Zealand’s 29-20 defeat in Dublin.

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The following week, he did not take part in the match (which he also lost) against France. After nearly three months of recovery, Barrett returned to Super Rugby last week for the first time since 2020, when he came on as a second-half substitute for the Oakland Blues against the Waikato Chiefs.

“I am well aware that a concussion can lead to retirement if things do not go normally. My brother Ken had to give up his career because of this. I see it happened to a lot of good friends and colleaguesBewden Barrett told the newspaper New Zealand Herald.

Perhaps this was the period when I was closer to retirement and just wasn’t ready for it. I’m only 30 years old and I still have a lot to offer

Bewden Barrett

“I tried to stay positive, I’m usually a very optimistic person. I tried finding other ways to get the upper hand back, and that’s what I did. Perhaps this was the period when I was closer to retirement and just wasn’t ready for it. I’m only 30 years old and I still have a lot to offer. I am happy to be fit and healthy and hope to help the Auckland Blues this season.»

“The hardest thing in this case is not finding a way to heal. Concussion treatment is just under 1000 euros“The opening match for New Zealand continues.”He was frustrated. Generally, December and January are festive times when you can relax and spend time with friends and family. That’s what I did, but it was annoying because I had constant headaches.Barrett is expected to start 10th for the Blues against the Highlanders on Friday.