What initially seemed like a disappointment has, in hindsight, become a blessing. Their hard work behind the scenes is now bearing fruit, with Warbrick making waves for the Storm and Clarke poised to reclaim the All Blacks’ No. 11 jersey for the Bledisloe Cup test in Sydney this weekend.
Reflecting on his journey, Clarke recalls training with former All Blacks loose forward Liam Barry and Hurricanes coach Clark Laidlaw, where he refined his high ball skills during his time with the national sevens team. Clarke remembers those sessions fondly, often joined by Warbrick as they practiced catching kickoffs and high balls, skills that would later become crucial to their respective careers.
Clarke’s expertise in fielding high balls has distinguished him among the All Blacks’ outside backs, a skill that was sorely missed during his injury layoff when the team struggled with aerial challenges in their defeat to South Africa in Cape Town.
Clarke’s game has also evolved at the Blues under new head coach Vern Cotter, who has encouraged him to be more involved in play, actively seeking opportunities off his wing. Clarke’s focus on his physical conditioning—starting the season at 103kg before adjusting to a more solid 107kg—has made a noticeable difference, particularly in contact situations. He credits his success to balancing his personal and professional life, saying that maintaining strong relationships with family and friends has helped him perform at his best on the field.
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