Former All Blacks player Murray Mexted has unleashed a scathing critique on New Zealand Rugby's handling of Ian Foster, painting a stark contrast with the support received by Rassie Erasmus. Mexted's comments come in the wake of reading Foster's book, 'Leading Under Pressure', which revealed the behind-the-scenes drama surrounding his departure from the All Blacks.
Mexted's criticism centers on the premature announcement of Scott Robertson's appointment as the new coach before the 2023 Rugby World Cup, a move he deems as 'lunacy'. He argues that such a decision not only undermined Foster's morale but also disrupted team cohesion, a critical aspect of high-performance sports.
"The naivety of those involved in making that decision is astonishing," Mexted said on the DSPN podcast. "Naming a new coach before the World Cup is a recipe for disaster. It's a lack of respect for the players and the coach." Mexted's frustration is palpable, especially given his own experience as a player, where he emphasizes the importance of keeping the team united.
In contrast, Mexted commends Rassie Erasmus for his resilience in securing support from South African Rugby. Erasmus, despite facing similar challenges, has since become a powerful figure, doing 'whatever he wants' and achieving success. Mexted's comparison highlights the stark difference in treatment between the two coaches, suggesting that Erasmus' success is a result of his unwavering support and autonomy.
This incident has left a bitter taste in the mouth of many rugby fans and players, raising questions about the stability and leadership within New Zealand Rugby. Mexted's comments serve as a wake-up call, urging the organization to reassess its approach to coaching appointments and player morale.
The future of New Zealand Rugby's coaching structure remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the treatment of Ian Foster has set a precedent that could have long-lasting implications for the team's performance and morale.
