“Right now I really feel for two fine men who are great rugby coaches who have made a huge contribution to the All Blacks,” said All Blacks coach Ian Foster.
“I have no doubt that both coaches will achieve great success and I want to thank them for their hard work.”
“Jason is a proven artist with a lot of experience at an international level,” said Foster.
“Last year we witnessed the impact he has made on Fiji’s forwards, contributing to his continued growth as the Crusader forwards coach. His appointment now is clear with a view to the future and the future. [Rugby World Cup] RWC 2023.”
Joe Schmidt is now formally starting his role as an independent All Blacks selector. Schmidt also has an important analysis role and will work with Foster on the overall strategy and attacking play.
Foster will resume the spine shortly.
The All Blacks will meet in Wellington on Monday before traveling to South Africa for the first test against the Springboks at Mbombela Stadium on August 7.
Earlier this year, Foster supported his under-fired assistants and was given additional resources in the form of skills consultant Andrew Strawbridge to make improvements from the forward pack in particular.
At Foster’s request, New Zealand Rugby board Plumtree and fellow All Blacks assistants Brad Mooar, Greg Feek and Scott McLeod have re-signed for the 2023 World Cup.
Ryan’s telling contribution to game play, maul defense and his ability to create a dominant platform was evident in the Super Rugby final as the Crusaders’ front pack dismantled the Blues at Eden Park.
– By Liam Napier of NZME