All Blacks hit by Covid outbreak ahead of series against Ireland
Ian Foster has tested positive for Covid-19
©Steve Haag
New Zealand have been dealt a blow ahead of the series against Ireland following a Covid outbreak in the camp.
The All Blacks coach Ian Foster along with forwards coach John Plumtree have tested positive and are under self-isolation at home. They are joined by Crusaders duo David Havili and Jack Goodhue, who are also separated from the rest of the squad.
A tweet from the All Blacks also confirmed that Crusaders' Braydon Ennor has joined the squad.
Despite the setback, Foster expressed confidence on his team's preparations leading to the opening Test on 2nd July at Eden Park in Auckland.
"We've had a plan for this happening, and it's a great opportunity for the wider coaching group and the senior players, who will be highly motivated to step up.
"We have learned how to cope with the unexpected, like everyone has over the past couple of years. I will still be working alongside the coaches and team via Zoom and I have huge faith in the coaching group and the players.
"We have structures in place and everyone is working together."
Following the first Test, New Zealand and Ireland will move to Dunedin for the second game on 9th July with the series coming to a conclusion in Wellington on 16th July.
Ireland will also be facing Maori All Blacks led by TJ Perenara and Brad Weber on 29th June and 12th July to aid in their preparations for the series against Foster's men.
