Craig Clarke was instrumental to the Chiefs Investec Super Rugby
title win last year, defying medical odds to play the final after injuring
his knee in the semi final. His calm and effective leadership coupled
with his impressive work ethic and lineout expertise earned Clarke
a nomination for the New Zealand Steinlager Rugby Award Super
Rugby Player of the Year. Currently in his fifth year with the Chiefs,
Clarke captained his ITM Cup side, Taranaki, to defend the Ranfurly
Shield for much of the season after emphatically winning it in 2011.
He is a former Junior All Black, Crusader and Hurricane.

Q&A with Craig:

What do you listen to in your headphones during warm-up/before games?
Rock and techno

Who's the most tone deaf/out of tune in the team?
Phil Healy - the trainer!

Who was influential in your rugby career and why?
My parents - they sacrificed a lot of time
Ruben Thorne - great man, great to learn off when younger

Loudest/craziest crown you've played in front of?
Pretoria 2009 final - loudest and craziest
Hamilton 2012 semi and final - awesome atmosphere

Who takes the longest to get ready in the morning?
My wife, Veree