Over a decade and a combined 200 international Tests ago, the Hurricanes launched a new era with a lethal halves duo destined to take the world by storm. On Saturday, the partnership will come to a close at none other than the ground where it all began.
TJ Perenara will run out in the No. 9 jersey on home soil for the All Blacks one final time in the second Bledisloe Cup contest, and he’ll be joined by brother-in-arms Beauden Barrett for the special occasion.
The pair forged a dynamic duo in the Wellington colours en route to the region’s first Super Rugby title in 2016. While in the national set-up, they’ve each gone from playing understudy to players considered by many to be the GOATs of their respective positions in New Zealand to creating legendary careers of their own.
On Saturday however, it will be the last time Barrett and Perenara take to a Kiwi ground side-by-side. Perenara was asked if it would feel like “back to the future” taking the field with his long-time friend.
“It’ll be cool,” the halfback replied. “When they named the team the other day and I saw Baz’s name at 10… We played a lot of games at nine and 10 for the Hurricanes; a lot in this stadium. So, to be able to get out there with my bro at 10 is something I’m excited for and something I’ll cherish.”
While an iconic chapter is set to draw to a close, another less favourable piece of history looms overhead.
The All Blacks’ losing streak in Wellington stretches back six years and threatens to put a damper on an emotional farewell as the No. 9 departs for Japan at the end of the year.
Another loss in his hometown stadium is not how Perenara wants to bow out.
“We need to sort that out. That’s our job, to play better here,” the 32-year-old stated emphatically.
“We haven’t been successful here in the last wee while so for us, we understand that a field or a region doesn’t determine whether you win or lose, it’s our circle and we have to own our performance this weekend and we’re looking forward to doing that.”
As they say; as one door closes, another door opens and for the All Blacks, there’s a flood of halfback young talent knocking on the door for selection.
Cortez Ratima has quickly established himself as an international quality talent in his debut season in the black jersey, while recent U20 rep Noah Hotham has also made his way into the international arena off the back of a superb Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
Add to that mix the impending return of 2023 breakout star Cam Roigard and the omissions of former All Blacks Finlay Christie and Folau Fakatava, and it’s clear Perenara leaves the jersey in safe hands.
After complimenting each of his aforementioned counterparts, Perenara was asked what message he would deliver his younger self that would serve him well for what would be a storied career.
“Just to enjoy the ride. There’s a lot of ups and downs that comes with what we do – you guys (the media) are a part of that, which is your job – but the way we play is part of that, too.
“I would just say to enjoy it for what it is, because man, it goes quickly.”
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