Barretts reunited as Scott signs on with Taranaki

Crusaders lock Scott Barrett, 23, has signed a two-year deal with Taranaki - moving north from Canterbury where he has been a standout over the past year, earning him his first All Blacks call up on the 2016 end of year tour.

The bruising lock will be joining the team that his father played for and the team that his brothers Beaden, Kane and Jordie currently represent.

"I have strong family connections with Taranaki rugby and grew up watching dad play for the province so it's very special, we're proud Taranaki people," Barrett said .

Taranaki coach Colin Cooper spoke highly of Barrett, saying that he had "been after him for a few years."

"One of our values is to inspire and he will do that," Cooper said.

"He will do a lot of work off the field as much as on it. That's what we will gain as a union and people will want to be involved with us when you have got quality men like that."