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All Blacks assistant coach Ian Foster extends New Zealand contract

Ian Foster is making waves as assistant coach with the All Blacks
Image: Ian Foster is making waves as assistant coach with the All Blacks

All Blacks assistant coach Ian Foster has signed a new deal, boosting his chances of being New Zealand's next head coach.

Foster and forwards coach Mike Cron have both extended their commitment through to the 2019 World Cup in Japan.

The announcement came four days after defence coach Wayne Smith said he needed a break and would step away from the Test environment at the end of this year's Rugby Championship.

Current head coach Steve Hansen, who guided the All Blacks to the 2015 world crown, is expected to stand down after the 2019 World Cup in Japan.

DUBLIN, IRELAND - NOVEMBER 17: New Zealand All Black coach Steve Hansen during a training session at the Westmanstown Sports Complex on November 17, 2016 i
Image: Could Foster be soon stepping into the shoes of Steve Hansen?

New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Tew has said he would like the next head coach to be involved in the 2019 campaign, which would count against other leading contenders such as the Wales head coach Warren Gatland and Ireland's Joe Schmidt.

"Fosie has led the team's back play and attack, which was second to none last year, with the All Blacks topping the international try-scoring table with 80 tries, almost double their nearest rival," said Tew.

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Smith, on announcing his decision to leave the All Blacks, endorsed Foster as head coach material.

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"I've been really, really impressed. He's a hard worker, he's got a good analytical brain, a good personality, great connections with the players and he's improving immensely. He would stack up with any coach in the world," Smith said.

Hansen described Foster as an "integral member" of the All Blacks coaching and management group over the past five years and someone who "brings a lot of composure, rugby nous and intellect to the team".

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The British & Irish Lions tour of New Zealand starts on June 3, exclusively on Sky Sports

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