Stuff Digital Edition

MISTAKES? WE MADE A FEW

one view about Foster before the Johannesburg test, but were forced to reassemble their thoughts after the All Blacks produced a performance that changed everything.

Yet, the addition of Schmidt also can’t be overlooked as it shows that Foster has acknowledged that the win against the Springboks won’t count for much unless further improvements are made.

Schmidt, who has reputation for suffering few fools, will add intelligence and edge to the camp.

‘‘It’s always been in the plan in some form, but the exact time I didn’t really know,’’ Foster said. ‘‘’I’ve been talking to Joe for about three years but he had very strong reasons to have a bit of a break and to not get back in the limelight.

‘‘So I’ve kind of dragged him back in. I’d like to thank Kelly, his wife, particularly.’’

Schmidt did not travel to South Africa, but his new elevated role signals that he will travel with the group in future trips.

Foster also made mention of his senior player group, who have been forced to look hard at themselves but have welcomed behindthe-scenes support and advice from former All Blacks who have been through similarly challenging periods.

No one, however, has emerged stronger from the recent turmoil than Foster himself. Stuff understands there were tears in the changing room in Johannesburg, from both Foster and new forwards supremo Jason Ryan. Such shows of emotion count a lot to players.

Yesterday’s press conference was also Foster’s most authoritative since he took the job – he projected utter confidence in his methods and position in a way arguably not seen since Steve Hansen’s time in charge.

Talk about a comeback.

Sport

en-nz

2022-08-18T07:00:00.0000000Z

2022-08-18T07:00:00.0000000Z

https://stuff.pressreader.com/article/282209424643713

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