A bold move by All Blacks star Caleb Clarke is making waves in the rugby world. He's taking his skills to the Sydney Swans, an Aussie Rules club, to enhance his game and address a critical weakness for the All Blacks - aerial ball control.
Clarke, a versatile winger, is no stranger to cross-code training, having previously worked with the South Sydney Rabbitohs. But this time, he's diving into a different sport altogether.
The Aerial Battle: A Critical Weakness Exposed
Last year, the All Blacks faced three devastating defeats, and their inability to consistently claim the ball in the air was a significant factor. The Springboks, Argentina, and England all exploited this weakness, with the latter dashing the All Blacks' Grand Slam hopes in a comprehensive 33-19 victory.
Recent law changes have made the contest for the ball more even, but they've also led to an increase in kicking in Test rugby - a strategy the All Blacks have struggled to adapt to.
After the England Test, Clarke highlighted the challenge: "They've taken away the protection. It's now a competition to catch the ball cleanly."
Aussie Rules: Masters of the Aerial Game
Aussie Rules players are renowned for their exceptional skills in claiming high kicks, and this expertise is often replicated in the top league and union sides in Australia. By training with the Sydney Swans, Clarke aims to elevate his aerial game to new heights.
Sydney Swans coach Dean Cox has previously worked with the All Blacks, and long-term specialist support in this area could be a game-changer for head coach Scott Robertson and his team, especially with a grueling Test year ahead, including four matches against the formidable Boks.
The All Blacks' review of their inconsistent 2025 season, marked by the departure of assistant coach Jason Holland, has likely highlighted the need to address their aerial flaws.
Robertson commented after a Test against the Boks: "They [South Africa] owned that area [kicking game] and put so much pressure on us. They know their DNA."
Leadership Changes and Potential Solutions
Amidst these challenges, New Zealand Rugby is also facing leadership transitions, with a new chief executive needed after Mark Robinson's departure, and a replacement for long-serving high-performance manager Mike Anthony, who is joining the Brighton football club.
Robertson will require a new assistant coach to fill Holland's role, and a potential solution could be Ronan O'Gara, a former Ireland first-five who impressed while coaching alongside Robertson at the Crusaders.
O'Gara, currently the head coach of French club La Rochelle, is facing pressure after recent underwhelming performances and is set for "crisis talks."
As the All Blacks prepare for a challenging 2026, Clarke's innovative approach to training and potential leadership changes could be the catalysts for a much-needed turnaround.
