How to caress an oarsman? (6)

I believe the answer is:

stroke

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'oarsman?' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

I don't understand the rest of the clue.

(Other definitions for stroke that I've seen before include "beat?" , "Attack of paralysis found in a boat?" , "Medical seizure - effect of sun - oarsman" , "butterfly?" , "Caress gently" .)

I've seen this clue in the Sydney Morning Herald.

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