Ian Foster's future could depend on games against South Africa hints New Zealand Rugby chief Mark Robinson

New Zealand chief executive Mark Robinson has hinted that Ian Foster's role with the All Blacks will depend on the outcome of the back to back Tests against South Africa in the upcoming Rugby Championship.

Foster has been on the receiving end of criticisms following New Zealand's home series defeat against Ireland that saw them slip to the fourth position in the World Rugby Rankings.

This was also New Zealand's first series defeat at home since 1994 and the outcome of which assistant coaches John Plumtree and Brad Mooar were sacked while Crusaders and Fiji forwards coach Jase Ryan has joined the backroom staff.

“I’m not going to get into speculating on things like that,” he told radio station Newstalk ZB.

“As we’ve signalled, he’s certainly the person to lead the team to South Africa and we’re making sure that we’ve got everything possible in the way of resourcing and support to make sure that’s successful,” said Robinson.

“But we certainly understand the sentiment of our fans that’s been coming through loud and clear,” he said.

Earlier, Crusaders head coach Scott Robertson, who has been one of the most successful title in Super Rugby threatened to go overseas after he was snubbed by the New Zealand board.

Responding to Roberston's statements, Robinson said: “We know Razor has a huge amount to offer the game in New Zealand in the future and we’ve obviously got a domestic contract with him around that. Commenting any further on that wouldn’t be appropriate.”