All Blacks Wing Caleb Clarke Reveals Northern Irish Roots Ahead of Ireland Clash

New Zealand wing Caleb Clarke has expressed his excitement about playing against Ireland for the first time, disclosing his family’s origins in Northern Ireland prior to Friday’s Test match in Dublin. Clarke, 25, has been a prominent player for the All Blacks this year, scoring six tries during their Rugby Championship campaign, and is anticipated to start on the left wing at Aviva Stadium, having played in last weekend’s victory over England. Speaking after the New Zealand team’s training session in Dublin on Monday, Clarke mentioned that his father, former All Blacks wing Eroni Clarke, and his grandfather had informed him of his Irish ancestry before he departed for the team’s northern tour. Clarke stated, “That’s where the Clarkes came from before coming to Samoa.” He further elaborated, “They came in the early ’20s or ’40s to Samoa and started potato farming and from there the Clarkes sort of grew.” When asked to provide more details, he added: “Northern Ireland, up north, before they came to Samoa as potato farmers, that’s what I heard.” He also quipped, “It’s probably why I like Guinness. I’m not a drinker but when I tried it I was like ‘wow, that is so nice!'” Clarke is expected to be a key attacking option for the All Blacks on Friday, but he recognizes the formidable challenge posed by Ireland’s wings. He remarked, “I know how much of a strength they are.” He continued, “So far it’s been James Lowe and Mack Hansen and they’ve been two strong wingers.” Clarke recalled, “I remember I used to watch Lowey back in the day when he was playing for the Chiefs.” He concluded, “I call him by his nickname but I don’t know him that well but still, he’s pretty cool and it’s really exciting.”