Queensland Reds stand-off Berrick Barnes has agreed to terms with arch rivals New South Wales Waratahs for the 2010 season.
NSW move to replace departing stars
Queensland Reds stand-off Berrick Barnes has agreed to terms with arch rivals New South Wales Waratahs for the 2010 season.
The 23-year-old Australia international has signed a one-year deal with the Waratahs with the option of a second season.
Barnes said: "I'm excited about this sort of challenge and that sort of thing.
"And it's a tough thing, I never thought I'd be playing down here to be honest but as circumstances panned out this is the best opportunity for me and I can look myself in the mirror and say that along with my family.
"It's been a tough few weeks and especially the last week, I won't lie about that, but as we've come down to it I think this is the best move.
"I need to grow up probably personally, it's a good opportunity for me in that respect. I've lived at home basically all my life.
"I think this is a good chance for me to grow up not only as a person but on the rugby field as well.
Business decision
"At the end of the day when it comes down to it it's more so a business decision ... and for me to be happy that I'm obviously challenging myself both personally and professionally."
Barnes, who impressed for the Reds in an otherwise miserable 2008 campaign, will help fill the void at the Waratahs left by the departures of Lote Tuqiri and Timana Tahu in recent weeks.
Asked what influence that had on his decision, Barnes replied: "Obviously as a player you don't like to see those guys leave.
"Lote's been a very loyal servant of NSW rugby and also a well-established leader within their squad and they were obviously disappointed and not expecting to lose him too.
"But that obviously hasn't played a part in my signing, they approached me and laid what they had out on the table and I think that's the best option for me."
Barnes' decision to head south comes less than 24 hours after fellow Wallaby Drew Mitchell agreed to join the Waratahs on a two-year deal.
