Caleb Clarke during a Blues training session. Super Rugby Pacific, Alexandra Park, Auckland, New Zealand. Tuesday 18 June 2024. © Photo credit: Andrew Cornaga / www.photosport.nz Photo: Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz
All Blacks wing Caleb Clarke has re-signed with New Zealand Rugby (NZR), the Blues and Auckland through to the end of 2025.
Clarke said he was both proud and determined to add to his 21 Test caps for the All Blacks and build on his contributions to the Blues in Super Rugby Pacific and Auckland in the NPC.
The 25-year-old started on the left wing during the All Blacks 47-5 win over Fiji in San Diego earlier this month, scoring his seventh Test try since his debut against Australia in Wellington in 2020.
"Any chance to wear the black jersey is a privilege and an opportunity to add to the legacy of the All Blacks. It's an exciting time to be involved with a new coaching group this year and to know I'll have the opportunity to put my hand up again in 2025," Clarke said ahead of the start of the Rugby Championship, which kicks off against Argentina in Wellington next weekend.
All Blacks Caleb Clarke, right, scores a try against Fiji at SnapDragon Stadium, San Diego. Photo: Denis Poroy / Action Press
All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson said it was great to have Clarke committed to New Zealand for another year.
"Caleb is a talented athlete and a quality person who is getting better at his craft. It's great to have him in the All Blacks."
Clarke said alongside the chance to push for a place in the All Blacks was the opportunity to build on a season that saw him score ten tries during the Blues Super Rugby Pacific title run.
"I love this club, my family have a strong connection to the Blues and I'm proud to continue to add to that legacy," Clarke said.
"Being part of a championship winning side was special. It's something many of us at the Blues have strived for in recent years, so to get over the line and win Super Rugby Pacific was a dream come true."
Blues head coach Vern Cotter said he was excited to have Clarke back at the club for 2025.
"It's excellent to see Caleb back in blue for another season, we love the energy he brings to our group. He's a powerful ball carrier, has markedly improved his defence and displayed his brilliant aerial skills from restarts and contestable kicks throughout last season."
Auckland head coach Craig McGrath said Clarke was a key contributor in the team environment.
"It's great to have Caleb signed for another season. Whenever he's in and around our Auckland NPC group he adds values and provides both knowledge and inspiration to the younger players coming through our systems."