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'Good to see him back' – Rieko Ioane return pleases All Blacks

October 3, 2019

Rieko Ioane's return to the All Blacks' starting side was a highlight for assistant coach Ian Foster, following last night's 63-0 victory over Canada in Oita.

After losing his spot as a starting wing to the electric, in-form duo of Sevu Reece and George Bridge, Ioane needed to make a good impression against Canada, and did just that - notching his 24th try in just his 27th Test to keep pressure on the outside backs.

What's more, Ioane also found himself shifted into the midfield, following both Sonny Bill Williams and Jack Goodhue being substituted.

Asked about Ioane's display, Foster was nothing but complimentary towards the 22-year-old, on course to break Doug Howlett's record tally of All Blacks tries.

"[I was] really, really pleased with Rieks tonight," Foster said.

"He got his hands on the ball, he looked fast, he looked strong and he looked committed to the contact area.

"It was good to see him back."

As for the positional shift, Foster alluded to Ioane's potential future in midfield, having been previously utilised in the number 13  role .

"He's always had the ability to cover midfield for us, he sees himself as a centre who can play wing, I think.

"It was good for him to have another hit out in there, [and] get another taste of it.

"Going forward, it just increases our options."

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