All Blacks lose powerhouse flyer ahead of England showdown
NEWS: The All Blacks will have to make some key selection decisions in the coming days ahead of their big showdown against England on Saturday.
The camp confirmed that powerhouse wing Caleb Clarke has been ruled out of the clash due to a 12-day concussion stand-down period.
He left the field early in the second half of his side’s 25-17 victory over Scotland at Murrayfield.
The story continues below…
“It’s unlucky for him. He’s been good,” said All Black assistant coach Jason Holland.
“He’s come back in the second half of this year fit and strong and enjoying his footy.
“He’s been having a crack, offloading, loving the contests in the air. It is one of those footy things.”
Holland also confirmed that Scott Barrett was on track to return, but a final decision will be made in midweek.
Barrett cut his leg three minutes into the win over Ireland in their tour opener and received 12 stitches. He was subsequently ruled out of the Scotland Test.
Meanwhile, the All Blacks will also face a tough decision on how they use Damian McKenzie this week.
The 30-year-old was a star off the bench against Scotland, and he could give England plenty of problems with ball in hand.
“His influence on the game [Scotland] was outstanding,” said Holland.
“I’m sure he doesn’t want to be known as a finisher. He’d be dying to be starting whatever games are available to him.
“It goes hand-in-hand with the wing situation and around what the balance is and how you beat England.”
Source: @AllBlacks
How did Damian McKenzie score this try?! pic.twitter.com/h6IIhvRSzX
— All Blacks (@AllBlacks) November 8, 2025
