Super 14
Barnes happy at Waratahs
Scrum.com
January 11, 2010
The Waratahs' Berrick Barnes in action during training, Victoria Barracks, Sydney, Australia, January 7, 2010
Berrick Barnes is back in training with the Waratahs © Getty Images
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Waratahs playmaker Berrick Barnes has dismissed reports linking him with the new Melbourne Rebels Super Rugby franchise, insisting that he is happy in New South Wales.

Barnes made the jump to the Waratahs at the end of last season from the struggling Reds, signing a one-year deal. With the Rebels being unveiled last week, his was one of a number of big names linked with a move to Melbourne ahead of their bow in 2011.

An ankle injury prevented Barnes from adding to his 21 Australia caps on their end-of-season tour, but the versatile former rugby league starlet is expected to return in the Waratahs' trial against the Brumbies on February 4 and play a full part in the Super 14.

"Obviously you take an interest in Melbourne because you're part of the competition and they're the new team coming in," Barnes told The Sun-Herald. "And it's obviously known to everyone I've signed a one-year deal.

"But all going well, and we'll see how we go the next few weeks. I've come down here to play football for the Waratahs. I haven't worried about Melbourne one bit. I'm fully focused on my role here to begin the season, and things will happen down the track which are out of my control. You guys can write what you want. I'm here for the Waratahs."

Meanwhile, the Brumbies have called prop Jonh Ulugia back into their Super 14 squad on a short-term contract as their front-row injury problems continue. Wallabies tight-head Ben Alexander is expected to see a surgeon this week for a fractured fifth metacarpal in his left hand, while Jerry Yanuyanutawa has a stress fracture in his left foot and is expected to be sidelined for six to eight weeks. Academy prop Jono Owen is also out with a calf strain.

© Scrum.com

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