Each All Black has a different reason for playing Ireland, but for wing Caleb Clarke, Saturday’s [NZT] Test at Aviva Stadium marks another accomplishment on his rugby resume.
Given that some of his ancestors migrated to Samoa from Belfast almost a century ago in order to cultivate potatoes, it also offers an opportunity to establish a connection with some of his heritage.
It’s really thrilling. Before we departed for the northern tour, I talked to my family, and my father and grandfather reminded me that I have Irish ancestry and that the Clarkes originated there before going to Samoa.
I think it’s the reason I enjoy Guinness. Even though I don’t drink, I thought it was rather pleasant when I tried it.
The 25-year-old Clarke, who has 25 Test caps, has never played or been to Ireland.
Although he felt the focus of the New Zealanders was on this game and not on the past, he claimed that recent All Blacks vs. Ireland matches did not affect him as much as other players.
He claimed that the All Blacks’ victory in the World Cup quarterfinals the previous year was unimportant.
“We kind of put everything aside and are aware of Ireland’s strength as a team and their potential going forward.
“It will be a difficult assignment to play here in Ireland.
“We’re concentrating on the future now that the quarterfinal has been thrown aside. We’ll be prepared, because that’s a formidable Irish squad with formidable Irish supporters.
“The most important thing is what’s coming and the big challenge it’s going to be because we know there are going to be a lot of fireworks out there whether that’s on or off the pitch, and we’ve got to be prepared for all of that.”
The 2022 home series loss to Ireland, according to Clarke, wasn’t a driving force for him either.
I wasn’t a part of that series. The boys would be thinking about it, but what matters most is what lies ahead and how difficult it will be.”
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