Ian Foster has confirmed he will take up a full-time job for the first time since leading the All Blacks to the 2023 Rugby World Cup final.
The 58-year-old has endured a rollercoaster tenure as All Blacks head coach after taking over from Sir Steve Hansen in 2020.
During his tenure with 46 Test caps, he had a record of 32 wins, 12 losses and two draws, with a win rate of 70% ranking him among the worst of any professional All Blacks head coach.
He also oversaw the first-ever defeat against Argentina and the first defeat against Los Pumas in New Zealand. In 2022, the All Blacks also lost their home series to Ireland, becoming the first New Zealand side to lose to Ireland, and then a heavy loss to South Africa, putting pressure on Foster's role.
Ian Foster goes to Japan
However, they made a complete turn and advanced to the 2023 Rugby World Cup finals, where they lost to South Africa 12-11.
Before the World Cup, the New Zealand Rugby Union announced Scott Robertson would replace Foster in 2024 and explained that despite offers, they had postponed negotiations over his future until after the tournament. .
When asked about his future, he explained: “At the moment I haven't said anything about my future, but all I can say is that I haven't told anyone anything and I've done it on purpose.'' .
“I had a few options before the World Cup, but basically, if you want to talk to me, wait until after the World Cup, because I don't want this team, or indeed this country. I was busy trying to sort out my feelings before the biggest event. ”
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Now, Foster has confirmed his future and will be reunited with fellow former All Blacks manager Hansen, who was his assistant coach from 2012 to 2019.
Next season, he will join Toyota Verblitz of Japan Rugby League 1.
“I am very excited to be joining Toyota and am determined to make a difference. I am very impressed by their ambition and look forward to working with them to achieve their goal of winning the title. I am confident in that,” Foster said of his appointment.
“And of course, I look forward to getting back in touch with Steve and working together again. We have always worked together and shared great things.”
He added: “I have been following the development of Japanese rugby over the last few years. There is no doubt that Rugby League 1 is a competition that is constantly improving.”
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Hansen and Foster reunite in Japan
Mr Hansen, director of rugby at Toyota Verblitz, is keen to work together again with Mr Foster, who led the All Blacks to glory at the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
“I'm really excited to finally announce that Ian is joining us. As everyone knows, Ian is someone I have a strong personal connection with and who I trust deeply,” he said. said.
“We are looking forward to his arrival as he is not only an exceptional coach but also a great friend. We have already had productive discussions about our plans for next year and the excitement is palpable.
“Toyota are very supportive and are becoming increasingly ambitious, not only as a company but also as a club looking to make their mark on the rugby world. Progress will take time, but the addition of Ian is Another important piece of the puzzle.
“His knowledge, understanding of the game and communication skills are second to none, and we are excited to collaborate with him again.”
quiz: Can you name all 44 people who have won the Rugby World Cup twice?