New Zealand
Barrett, Savea confirm Olympic interest
ESPN Staff
April 17, 2015
Julian Savea would be a massive addition to the New Zealand Sevens side © Getty Images
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Star Hurricanes duo Julian Savea and Beauden Barrett have confirmed their Olympic interest in a major boost for the New Zealand Sevens side.

The All Blacks pair still have a long way to go before they are given the green light to balance their Super Rugby and Test responsibilities with any Sevens duty; a prospect that appeared too great for a couple of other New Zealand stars.

Just last week All Blacks fly-half Aaron Cruden revealed he wouldn't be chasing a spot at the Rio de Janeiro Games before No.8 and Richie McCaw's likely replacement as New Zealand skipper, Kieran Read, also confirmed he wouldn't be chasing an Olympic medal.

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But the chance to represent New Zealand on sport's biggest stage certainly excites Barrett, despite his discussions moving barely beyond the preliminary stage.

"Yep, I've put my hand up, but I'm focusing on fifteens and playing well for the Canes is where my heads at... I've had some discussions with NZ Rugby, but haven't talked to Titch at all," Barrett told stuff.co.nz

"All I know is he's put a few names up to NZ Rugby around how it could work a few months ago, but there are still a lot of grey areas."

Savea is yet to re-sign with New Zealand Rugby and while he is unlikely to follow the likes of fellow young guns Charles Piutau and Francis Sailai in heading to Europe, a trip to the Olympics could be the icing on an impressive new deal.

"I've told my agent I'm really keen, but I just have to see what happens next year," Savea said. "I still haven't signed [with NZ Rugby], but if all goes well I'd be really keen to have a crack at it."

New Zealand Sevens coach Sir Gordon Tietjens could also target other Hurricanes players, including Cory Jane, TJ Perenara and Victor Vito.

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