All Blacks and Blues wing Caleb Clarke has recommitted to New Zealand Rugby and his Super Rugby franchise until the end of 2025.
The 25-year-old Clarke's one-year contract extension, a relatively short term for a player of his age, may raise speculation about his future in rugby and a possible shift to league.
Clarke, who played his 21st Test when starting in the No.11 jersey for the All Blacks against Fiji in San Diego recently - scoring a try - said he was determined to win more Test caps.
He has seven Test tries since making 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," Clarke said.
"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."
All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson, who named Clarke in his 36-man Rugby Championship squad, said: “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, who scored 10 tries for the Super Rugby Pacific champion Blues this past season, added: “I love this club, my family have a strong connection to the Blues and I’m proud to continue to add to that legacy.
"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.”
Clarke has also made no secret of his love for league and last year trained with the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
In an interview with Newshub in December he said: “That would be an actual dream come true. That’s one of those life goal things. It would be a dream to play league. Hopefully I still have time to do it.
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“I’m young now so hopefully these legs can still carry me.”
The All Blacks' next Test is against Argentina in Wellington on August 10.
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