All Black admits dangerous driving charge

Caleb Clarke evades the Irish defence during a test last year. Photo: Getty Images
Caleb Clarke evades the Irish defence during a test last year. Photo: Getty Images
All Blacks and Blues star Caleb Clarke faces hefty fines or even jail time after admitting charges of dangerous driving and failing to stop for police.

The NZ Herald reported the 29-test winger pleaded guilty - through a lawyer - to charges in the Auckland District Court today related to an incident in the city in December.

While the 25-year-old has apologised, he is seeking a discharge without conviction, ahead of sentencing in June.

"Last year I made an error of judgment while riding my motorbike in Auckland," he said, according to the NZ Herald.

"I've taken full responsibility for my actions and have entered a guilty plea today.

"I'm extremely apologetic and embarrassed. The court and employment processes are ongoing and I am now going to focus fully on my rugby."

The Blues are set to allow Clarke to play out the Super Rugby season without disciplining him, issuing a club statement that said it would conduct an "internal employment procedure" after sentencing.

New Zealand Rugby is yet to comment on the wrongdoing.

The charges carry weighty punishment: dangerous driving can lead to three months' jail, disqualification from driving for six months or a fine up to $4500, while failing to stop can bring a fine of $10,000.

Clarke helped the Blues to a drought-busting Super Rugby Pacific title last year, the Auckland-based side's first in 21 years.

The champions sit bottom of the table after two winless rounds - including their loss to the Highlanders in Dunedin on Saturday - with Clarke try-less this season.