After back-to-back losses and growing criticism for his play at fullback, you'd think Blues star Beauden Barrett may be starting to feel pressure on his game but in reality, it's more the opposite.
Barrett spoke to 1 NEWS last night after spending some of his personal time helping out at a junior rugby training and was asked how he was dealing with the growing scrutiny of his play in the No.15 jersey.
"Like any rugby season, you have your highs and your lows," Barrett said.
"I've had my own struggles but I'm working really hard on my game and I know that I can be satisfied with how hard I'm working and I know that within a week or two things can turn around dramatically."
The 29-year-old has in recent weeks been challenged about his performances for the Blues as a fullback with one UK writer going as far as calling him a "liability" in the role.
The situation wasn't helped with Barrett getting brushed aside by a rampaging Ngani Laumape in the Blues' most recent loss either.
But Barrett isn't hearing any of it.
"I don't let any of that get me down.
"I just keep trying my best and I know where I want to get to."
In fact, Barrett said he's simply grown used to the constant pressure and criticism he faces as a top rugby player.
"That's just the world we live in, it's always been there for me," he said.
"I guess it's probably because there isn't too much sport going on that everyone is interested... but I'm just trying to be the best I can be and I'm working hard on doing so.
"I'm not taking my position for granted, that's for sure."
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