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Ex-All Blacks captain Scott Barrett opens up on deceptive ‘flat tyre’ injury

Scott Barrett has returned to the international arena as if he never left. However, the past 11 months have been far from smooth, with an injury he has described as a "flat tyre" throwing a spanner in the works.

Published: Friday, 16 October 2026 at 8:53 PM
Ex-All Blacks captain Scott Barrett opens up on deceptive ‘flat tyre’ injury
Key Things to Know
  • Scott Barrett opened up about dealing with a deceptive spinal disc injury that caused severe nerve issues.
  • Barrett underwent a microdiscectomy procedure after his calf stopped firing properly due to sciatic pain.
  • The 11-month ordeal ruled Barrett out of Super Rugby Pacific matches and New Zealand's tour of South Africa.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Former All Blacks captain Scott Barrett has opened up about a deceptive spinal injury that sidelined him for 11 months before his return against Australia. Barrett explained on the Inside the Black Jersey podcast that an issue initially mistaken for a tight hip developed into nerve pain and prevented his calf from firing properly.

Specialists recommended a microdiscectomy to shave away a bulged disc putting pressure on his nerves. Barrett underwent a four-month rehabilitation process to rebuild his core and calf function, which forced him to miss the end of the Super Rugby Pacific season and the tour of South Africa.

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