Foster on clash with Black Ferns: 'Find a creative solution'
All Blacks coach Ian Foster said he is disappointed that their scheduled game against Japan in Tokyo will clash with that of the Black Ferns’ quarterfinal match against Wales on Saturday.
Speaking after outrage ensued about the scheduled clash, Foster said the All Blacks were “disappointed” at the situation.
New Zealand Rugby said on Wednesday that they “did not take into account” that there might be a clash between the two games and that “there was never an intent to overshadow the Rugby World Cup in any way”.
“It was certainly unintended and clearly a mistake was made,” Foster said in Tokyo on Thursday.
“I think the world’s got to get over condemning people who make a mistake and own it, and just find a way to enjoy both teams.”
Foster urged fans to find a “creative” solution.
“We’re certainly massive fans of the Black Ferns and want the best for them, and clearly we’re pretty excited about our own game,” he said.
“The good thing is that pretty creative people will be able to find ways to watch both.”
The All Blacks will travel to Europe to play Wales, Scotland and England after facing Japan, urged fans to find a
New Zealand’s acting prime minister Grant Robertson said it was “really unfortunate”, while justice minister Kiritapu Allan wrote on Twitter that it was “avoidable, and frankly, disgraceful”.
