Blues sweat on star winger's fitness

It is not yet clear whether bruising winger Caleb Clarke will be able to participate in the Super Rugby Pacific play-offs as the 23 year-old recovers from a hamstring injury. 

Clarke picked up the strain during the Blues’ recent 21-19 victory over the Brumbies and has been ruled out of his side’s clash in Sydney against the Waratahs this weekend. However, assistant coach Daniel Halangahu said there was a possibility that he could feature in the play-offs. 

“He’s not available this week. Beyond that, with the size of his legs, maybe they heal faster than others,” Halangahu told the NZ Herald. 

“It is bad timing, especially the way he is playing and the way he started that match. He’s an important part of what we’re doing. We feel for him. Injuries are a horrible part of the game. 

“How he pulls up by the end of this week will be important to see if it’s as bad as some hamstrings are.” 

Despite the setback, Halangahu says the mood in the Blues camp is strong. 

“We’re going to Sydney and we’re going to win,” he said. “That’s been the strongest message around here today.”