Otere Black's injury opens up possibility of Beauden Barrett returning to fly-half

All Blacks star Beauden Barrett could return to fly-half for Auckland Blues for the next week's Super Rugby Aotearoa clash against Chiefs following an injury to Otere Black.

Barrett was New Zealand's go-to fly-half option following the retirement of Dan Carter but was shifted to fullback with the rise of Richie Mo'unga and was seen continuing the role for his new club Blues since the start of the Super Rugby Aotearoa competition.

Black suffered a neck injury at the start of the second half in the recently concluded game against Hurricanes on Saturday following which Barrett took the kicking responsibility.

"I enjoyed that role and it's obviously my preferred position," Barrett told reporters.

"I've been training there for the second half of trainings in case Otey got injured I'd be ready for that.

"I'm just happy to be playing where I can get ball in hand, that's where I feel that I have more influence."

Despite the 29-27 defeat to Hurricanes, Blues maintained their second position in the table and will face Chiefs next on 26th July at Eden Park in the seventh round.