Foster on North v South eligibility

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It was announced on Friday that Eden Park would be the venue for the unique clash which would take place a fortnight after the final round of Investec Super Rugby Aotearoa.

“Going on the first province represented we think is simple, easy to understand and has got strong ties to how it has been done in the past,” Foster said. “And it rewards the province where the players actually chose to begin their first-class career and those that put a bit of effort into them.”

Foster acknowledged there is merit for all the eligibility suggestions proposed by fans and pundits over the past couple of weeks but said the final criteria is the cleanest and most efficient for the game this year and would provide players with an exciting opportunity to represent the province they first played for.

“A lot of our top players have talked about a North v South game for years but have never had the chance to do it, where is now they have,” Foster said.

The former Waikato first five-eighth said the global disruption caused by Covid-19 had opened a unique opportunity to New Zealand and the North v South clash would provide a great encore to the Investec Super Rugby Aotearoa competition.

“To have this special game at the end of it (Investec Super Rugby Aotearoa), keeps the players motivated, it keeps them excited, and is a chance to keep celebrating where New Zealand is at.” Foster said.

Watch the full interview with Ian Foster below:

Steinlager North v South will take place at Eden Park on Saturday 29 August at 5.35pm. The North will be coached by John Plumtree and Scott McLeod while the South will be guided by Brad Mooar and Greg Feek. Tickets go on public sale on Thursday 16 July HERE.

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