Rugby: Back-up No 10 in demand for the black jersey too

Otere Black. Photo / Getty Images

Otere Black is a man in demand.

After a knee injury to Hurricanes first-five Beauden Barrett, Black is the insurance policy on the bench for the franchise behind James Marshall, while the NZ under-20s would like his services for next month's world championship event in Italy.

There are also other Super Rugby teams swarming for Black's signature for next year and beyond. The rookie pivot is only a wider training group member with the Hurricanes and franchises such as the Crusaders and Blues could be in need of a quality No 10 next year.

But Black is about as unproven as they come at this level, with his only appearance this season coming off the bench against the Rebels in round seven in March.

Despite that, Hurricanes coach Chris Boyd said he would have no concerns if the youngster was required to play a significant role against the Sharks at Westpac Stadium in Wellington tomorrow night due to the experienced players he would have around him.

"He's a real student of the game, Otere," Boyd said. "He's got a great understanding of what we are trying to do, both defensively and offensively, and I have absolutely no issues with him running our game."

Barrett was expected to be sidelined for three matches, which could transition nicely for Black. The NZ under-20s are set to assemble in Auckland in the week from Monday, May 25, two days after the Hurricanes play the Blues at Eden Park.

Should Barrett recover, as expected, in time to meet the Crusaders in Nelson on May 29, Black would spend the next three games with the Hurricanes before travelling to Italy to play for the NZ under-20s.

If Barrett's recovery was to stall, the Hurricanes would look to "Plan B", says coach Boyd, which could include Black staying with them.

"It'd definitely be awesome to get over there and put on a black jersey but at the same time it's pretty special being a part of this team as well," Black said of the Hurricanes.

For a man who turned only 20 this week, he has a lot on his agenda but he's tried to soak everything up with the Hurricanes this season.

"It's a bit unreal, really ... But it's been awesome. I've enjoyed every moment. Every day I learn something new from the likes of Ma'a Nonu and Beauden Barrett."

As for whether he would be back in the capital next year, that's up for negotiation. "I'm going through that at the moment. I've just got to focus on footy and let that take care of itself."