New Zealand head coach Ian Foster backs rule to replace red-carded players

New Zealand head coach Ian Foster has come in support of the new rule following Jordie Barrett's red-card incident in the recently concluded Rugby Championship game against Australia in Perth on Sunday.

Barrett was sent-off in the 28th minute during the game as his boot struck Marika Koroibete on his face.

Under the new rule which was already trialled in Super Rugby, a red-carded player can be replaced in 20 minutes after the send off which meant the All Blacks returned to full strength for the final 30 minutes in the game.

“He just lost balance and you could see what happened,” Foster said of the incident.

“I feel for the refs in these situations.

“We probably benefited but we were a keen supporter (of the rule) even before the game.

“Today’s incident probably justifies it. It’s why all the SANZAAR countries are united in carrying on this global trial.”

Meanwhile, Wallabies head coach Dave Rennie was disappointed in his side failing to capitalise on the numerical advantage following Barrett's send-off.

“The decision was accurate. Based on the law, there is going to be repercussions for that,” he said.

“But (the All Blacks being shorthanded) for only 20 minutes was a good thing.”

“We had chances to score but we didn’t,

“We couldn’t put enough scoreboard pressure on them today.”