The Hurricanes insist shifting playmaker Beauden Barrett to fullback against the Blues isn’t designed to address two of the apparent weaknesses in their Super Rugby campaign.

Barrett’s switch pushes Andre Taylor to the reserve bench and allows Samoan international Tusi Pisi to make his first start of the season at five-eighth.

Backline coach Alama Ieremia was at pains to explain that Barrett’s defensive struggles and Taylor’s modest season at the back weren’t behind the switch.

Ieremia said Barrett’s tackling statistics had improved considerably since a turnstile-like start to the season, while Taylor’s form had been “solid” even if he wasn’t producing the attacking fireworks of last year.

“This is more of a tactical approach of how we look at this game,” Ieremia said.

“You’ve got to respect the Blues. They’ve got some pretty potent attacking weapons right through the backline so we have to make sure we get the balance right with directing the team, but also negating some of their attack.”

Barrett, who has helped guide the Hurricanes to four successive wins, says he is excited about the switch and has made the necessary mental adjustment this week.

“There’s a bit more space at the back and a lot more time to observe what’s happening in front of you,” he said.

“It does take a couple of trainings to get my head around positional play again but I’m fairly comfortable now and I’m ready to go.

“It’s more understanding the defensive systems and working tightly with my wingers.”

Barrett, 21, played two Tests at fullback for the All Blacks last November during their tour of Europe.

He came on early to replace an injured Israel Dagg against Scotland and started there the following week against Italy before leaving that game with an injury himself.

“It’s not unfamiliar territory for me. It’s a similar skill set, I’m just not driving the team as much,” he said.

“Communication is still very important, whether I’m at first five or fullback. It will help Tusi a lot if the outsides are talking.”

Barrett expected he and second five-eighth Tim Bateman, who has played a lot at No.10, would both slot in at first receiver on occasions during multi-phase attacks.