All Blacks coach Ian Foster has survived the storm of criticism that followed the mid-year series loss to Ireland, at least for now, and on Friday promised change ahead of two Rugby Championship Tests against the Springboks.
Foster’s head was on the block after last week’s humiliating 32-22 defeat at the hands of the Irish in Wellington, which resulted in the All Blacks losing a home series for the first time in the professional era.
Facing the media for the first time since his post-match news conference on Saturday, Foster said that he had never considered stepping down from the job he was handed in 2019. “I am strong.
I am resilient,” he told reporters in Auckland after announcing his squad for the Rugby Championship. “I believe I have a great feel and relationship with my players.