A teary and emotional Caleb Clarke dedicated his man-of-the-match performance for the Blues against the Highlanders to his grandfather, who died hours before kickoff.
Wing Clarke struggled to keep his emotions in check before kick-off at Eden Park, during a moment's silence for slain police officer Mathew Hunt, who was killed in the line of duty last week.
After the match, Clarke revealed his emotions were high, after his grandfather passed away earlier in the day.
The 21-year-old was sensational, scoring the opening try of the game and immediately pointing to the heavens, as the Blues secured a 27-24 win to remain unbeaten in Super Rugby Aotearoa.
"It was a big day, losing my grandfather just before kick-off," Clarke told Sky Sport. "It was a bit hard and it was a bit iffy whether I was going to play."
"But I know he would have wanted me to play, so I think I just dedicated that game to him.
"I just want to give the glory and honour back to God. That was dedicated to you, grandpa."
Blues coach Leon MacDonald also paid his respects.
"It's been a big day for him and his family," said MacDonald. "He wanted to go out there and make them proud.
"He was brilliant tonight and he will be emotionally drained. Our thoughts are with the family for their loss."
The Blues remain atop the Super Rugby Aotearoa standings and have a well-deserved bye next week, before a highly anticipated showdown against the Crusaders in Christchurch.
Join us at 3:35pm Sunday for live updates of the Chiefs v Crusaders Super Rugby Aotearoa clash
