The talented utility back is bound for Dublin in December.
Leinster fans faced a worrying sight on social media today as footage of new signing Jordie Barrett emerged showing him limping through Sydney International Airport wearing a knee brace after suffering an injury during the All Blacks’ Bledisloe Cup win over Australia yesterday.
The 27-year-old put on quite a show in the early stages of the game, showing his quick feet and pace to set up a try just after the clock hit sixty seconds.
Jordie Barrett departs Sydney in a knee brace, limping, and sore according to Scott Robertson.
— Ollie Ritchie (@OllieRitchie1) September 22, 2024
He’ll have scans tomorrow, but thought to be MCL damage. pic.twitter.com/GJq0rBjWJK
Despite the exciting and encouraging performance, Barrett was pictured limping off the pitch after reportedly injuring his medial collateral ligament in the game.
While the immediate worry lies with New Zealand fans ahead of next weekend’s rematch with the Aussies in Wellington, onlookers from this side of the hemisphere will be more concerned that the injury will delay Barrett’s debut for Leo Cullen’s side come the new year.
The Super Rugby star’s short-term move to the Dublin-based club was announced back in April, as a means to provide cover for Leinster’s internationals who’ll be on Six Nations duty and preparing for the Lions Tour.
Anyone who has watched the All Black back in recent years will know that he offers so much more than just cover, and a lot of Leinster fans see the new recruit as key to securing some silverware next season.
Following his team’s 31-28 victory over the Wallabies on Saturday, New Zealand coach Scott Robertson gave an update on Barrett’s condition to the media in Sydney.
“He’s sore, scan tomorrow,” explained Robertson. “Look it’s one of those you have to scan to get a feel of it, and the Barretts heal pretty quickly.”
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Typically MCL injuries keeps players out of action for three to six weeks. More serious tears can take a lot longer and recurring injuries are common, keeping players out for months on end.
Leinster fans will be crossing fingers and toes that the outcome aligns with the former rather than the latter.
