In reflecting on his time as the head coach of the All Blacks, Ian Foster experienced a bittersweet conclusion. Despite enduring significant scrutiny, criticism, and setbacks, Foster’s coaching journey didn’t conclude as he might have hoped.
Around 15 months after the disappointing series loss to Ireland and the challenging defeat in South Africa that nearly ended his coaching career, the All Blacks fell agonizingly short of capturing the Rugby World Cup.
In a tense battle against Siya Kolisi’s Springboks at Stade de France, the All Blacks suffered a significant setback when their captain, Sam Cane, received the first-ever red card in a men’s World Cup final.
Additionally, flanker Shannon Frizell received a yellow card, leaving the New Zealanders to play with only 14 men for roughly 65 minutes. However, the All Blacks maintained their determination throughout the match.
The final had all the elements of an epic showdown, with Jordie Barrett missing a critical penalty, and the All Blacks relentlessly pressuring the Springboks’ defensive line in their quest for championship glory. Regrettably, victory eluded them.
New Zealand ultimately succumbed to their long-standing rivals with a narrow score of 12-11. In Ian Foster’s last match as head coach before Scott Robertson’s takeover, the Kiwi team displayed remarkable determination, resilience, and passion.
Despite the valiant effort, the Springboks held their ground. Coach Foster, visibly affected and almost at a loss for words, addressed the media at the post-match press conference, marking the end of the Ian Foster era.
Reflecting on his time coaching the All Blacks, Foster expressed, “I would say there were many highs and lows. It’s been a privilege. I’ve been fortunate to work with a remarkable group of individuals. What stands out the most? Probably today.
Despite the loss, as a coach, you aspire to see your team perform on the grandest stage and give their all, which they did. We didn’t achieve the desired outcome given the challenges we had to adapt to, but I couldn’t be prouder.”
This All Blacks team made significant progress during Foster’s two-month tenure. New Zealanders will vividly recall the team’s humiliation against the Springboks in August, where they suffered a 35-7 defeat at Twickenham, leading many to doubt their chances at the Rugby World Cup. However, they persevered behind the scenes.
Although they managed to secure victories against Ireland and Argentina in the knockout stages, it was the Springboks who emerged victorious in the final. Nevertheless, the All Blacks have every reason to hold their heads high.
Foster commented, “It was an incredible final. The emotions were running high on both sides, and this will be no different. A 12-11 scoreline. I want to congratulate South Africa for their remarkable achievement. They displayed immense character and determination throughout the tournament, emerging victorious in three closely contested matches. They are doing something right.”
He continued, “For us, it’s heart-wrenching. I’m immensely proud of our team, considering the way we played and the resilience we showed, particularly in the second half, after the red card in the first half and the impact that decision had. Overall, I’m incredibly proud of our team, but the locker room is filled with disappointment.
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